The Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) has warned farmers about the escalating crisis of dog attacks on livestock across Ireland's hills and farmlands.
It comes after the association has developed a petition with a book of evidence which has been sent to the Government and European Parliament, calling for a national DNA register, stricter legislation and Government-led enforcement.
INHFA vice-president John Joe Fitzgerald said these attacks are not only increasing in frequency, but are becoming disturbingly vicious, leaving farmers feeling unprotected by Government.
"Law and order is breaking down and we are seeing some recreational users with dogs showing blatant disregard for the safety of farm animals and the rights of landowners,” he said.
“This cannot continue and it is important that everyone understands this, which is why we are taking action."
Actions
The INHFA have demanded a “co-ordinated national response” which includes: mandatory licensing, microchipping and DNA sampling of all dogs; a centralised database under the remit of the Department of Agriculture; one-off Government subsidy to cover the cost of DNA sampling, with a clear time limit to encourage compliance; zero-tolerance policy for non-compliance after the deadline; and legislation banning non-working dogs from hills and farmlands.
This legislation would also carry criminal penalties and fines for offenders and it would also remove any ambiguity around access with dogs.
The INHFA is seeking a new legislation banning non-working dogs from hills and farmlands. \ Philip Doyle
In addition, the INHFA wants roaming patrol units made up of gardaí, dog wardens and NPWS rangers to patrol tourist hotspots, trails and walkways as well as an improved awareness and education campaign across Irish national schools.
Plea
Fitzgerald added: “It is a plea for basic protections and equal treatment. Our animals are suffering. Our communities are suffering. We’ve been ignored long enough.
“This legislation will send a clear, unambiguous message and challenge those who refuse to respect farming families, property rights, and the law.
"The Government needs to act now, not later, and work directly with farmers to create new laws, enforce them, and prioritise education.”
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The Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) has warned farmers about the escalating crisis of dog attacks on livestock across Ireland's hills and farmlands.
It comes after the association has developed a petition with a book of evidence which has been sent to the Government and European Parliament, calling for a national DNA register, stricter legislation and Government-led enforcement.
INHFA vice-president John Joe Fitzgerald said these attacks are not only increasing in frequency, but are becoming disturbingly vicious, leaving farmers feeling unprotected by Government.
"Law and order is breaking down and we are seeing some recreational users with dogs showing blatant disregard for the safety of farm animals and the rights of landowners,” he said.
“This cannot continue and it is important that everyone understands this, which is why we are taking action."
Actions
The INHFA have demanded a “co-ordinated national response” which includes: mandatory licensing, microchipping and DNA sampling of all dogs; a centralised database under the remit of the Department of Agriculture; one-off Government subsidy to cover the cost of DNA sampling, with a clear time limit to encourage compliance; zero-tolerance policy for non-compliance after the deadline; and legislation banning non-working dogs from hills and farmlands.
This legislation would also carry criminal penalties and fines for offenders and it would also remove any ambiguity around access with dogs.
The INHFA is seeking a new legislation banning non-working dogs from hills and farmlands. \ Philip Doyle
In addition, the INHFA wants roaming patrol units made up of gardaí, dog wardens and NPWS rangers to patrol tourist hotspots, trails and walkways as well as an improved awareness and education campaign across Irish national schools.
Plea
Fitzgerald added: “It is a plea for basic protections and equal treatment. Our animals are suffering. Our communities are suffering. We’ve been ignored long enough.
“This legislation will send a clear, unambiguous message and challenge those who refuse to respect farming families, property rights, and the law.
"The Government needs to act now, not later, and work directly with farmers to create new laws, enforce them, and prioritise education.”
Read more
Survey finds 73% of sheep farmers experienced dog attacks
Minister warns dog owners of financial devastation of dog attacks
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