Editorial: State must join dog owners in controlling dangerous breeds

A previous attack by an XL bully like the one pictured sparked a national debate about restrictions on certain dog breeds. Stock photo: Getty

Editorial

The death of a young woman following a dog attack in Limerick has caused shock throughout the country. The attack on Nicole Morey, who died on her 23rd birth­day, seems unfathomable. An XL bully believed to have been involved in the attack was shot dead at the scene, while three other dogs were seized. Gardaí are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the horrific incident, so the full facts are not yet known.

Nonetheless, this is the second occasion in which this particular breed of dog has come to national attention as a result of a vicious attack. An XL bully is a variation of the pit bull and known for its strength. Alejandro Mizsan, who is now 11, was attacked by an XL bully while playing outside with friends in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, two years ago and was left with serious facial injuries. A man and a woman were jailed earlier this year over the attack.

That horrific mauling sparked a national debate about restrictions being placed on certain breeds of dogs. A task force was set up to look at bringing recommendations to the minister in terms of strengthening the legislation around the control of dogs. While there are restricted breeds here, no breeds are banned. The Government says that if the group recommends a ban on any breed, it will be implemented.

Under the Control of Dogs Regulations, there are rules in place already to restrict ownership and impose controls on several dog breeds, including pit bulls, Dobermans and German shepherds. Any dog on the restricted breed list must be kept on a strong lead by a person over 16, must be muzzled at all times in public places and must always wear a collar bearing the name and address of the owner. The basic legislation is already in place, so what is being envisaged would not be that difficult to implement.

Strict rules about ownership of XL bullies are in force in England, Scotland and Wales. Restrictions on owning the dogs were announced in Northern Ireland earlier this year. The Stormont Executive is bringing forward legislation requiring people to register their ownership of the breed and obtain an exemption certificate, and also to keep them on a lead and muzzled while in public. There would also be a ban on breeding, selling, abandoning or giving away XL bully dogs in the region. Further, XL bullies would have to be neut­ered under the planned law changes.

It is not acceptable that the Government on this side of the Border cannot keep pace with its counterparts in the North. It also undermines the action being taken there to not have a similar follow-through in this jurisdiction. If the intention is to ban specific breeds, restrict them or bring in additional safeguards for the public, and then get on with it.

A current advertising campaign tells dog owners they are responsible if their dog bites someone. But the State also has to take ownership of the system that is in place to prevent dog attacks.

The warning signs are firmly there on dangerous breeds.