Concerns raised over 'loose' dogs on Limerick Greenway
COUNCILLORS in Newcastle West have called for more patrols by dog wardens along the Limerick Greenway.
During a meeting of the municipal district, councillors discussed what measures are available to them to ensure dog owners are acting responsibly.
Councillors referenced a number of incidents that had been reported to them regarding dogs in the town and more specifically the Limerick Greenway.
Councillor Michael Collins said he was contacted by a mother who said her 16-year-old son had been chased by a Dobberman on the Greenway.
“He managed to outrun it but what could have happened if he hadn't or if it had been a young child?”.
Cllr Collins said the Limerick Greenway is a “fantastic amenity” but that some dogs have been left to run free.
“Gardai and dog wardens have been doing joint operations and we have been told that they intend to do these multiple times a year.”
Cllr Collins put forward a motion that certain areas should be policed by the dog warden more frequently and that dog owners should be made aware of their responsibilities to keep their dogs secured on leads when in a public area.
There are two dog wardens in the county who carry out patrols in the area as resources allow.
Cllr John Sheahan said some owners were “irresponsible” and had “no regard for the law”.
“I am glad the gardai are involved but I would question how much authority dog wardens have and what they can do.”
Under the Dog Control Act, owners are required to have their dogs under effectual control.
Dogs are only required to be on leads if they are restricted breeds as defined in the Act.