The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has confirmed that an enforcement operation was carried out in relation to animal welfare.

According to DAFM it carried out an enforcement operation yesterday (July 9) "with support and assistance from An Garda Síochána".

The department has lead policy responsibility for animal welfare and said it "takes the matter of animal welfare most seriously".

"The department is committed to the policy that animal welfare standards are vigorously applied in a fair and even-handed manner," it outlined.

DAFM has not provided any official details in relation to the latest enforcement operation.

Intervention

Last year the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O'Callaghan clarified garda intervention powers when it came to animal welfare.The minister said: "Members of An Garda Síochána have multiple powers in relation to animal welfare concerns, the below Acts and local bye laws enable gardaí to search with/without warrant, to seize animals and arrest individuals in contravention of the Acts:

Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013;
Control of Horses Act 1996;
Control of Dogs Act 1986.

"Animal Health & Welfare Liaison Inspectors are nominated in Garda Divisions who have contact details of veterinary surgeons employed by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine and may be called upon to assist members of An Garda Síochána in their duties under this act."

He said that in relation to seizing an animal, the local authority can provide members with contacts for horse pounds and dog wardens. Local animal charities also assist gardaí when requested.

DAFM operates a confidential animal welfare helpline through which members of the public can report incidents of animal cruelty or neglect for investigation.

The dedicated helpline in place for reporting suspected cases of animal welfare is (01) 607 2379.