Number of applications for XL Bully dog exemptions in Limerick revealed

LIMERICK City and County Council have confirmed that 20 dog owners have applied for XL Bully exemption certificates.

A ban to import, breed, rehome or resell the dog breed was implemented on October 1, 2024 after a number of incidents, including one fatal incident where a woman from Limerick, Nicole Morey, was killed by her XL Bully outside a house in Ballyneety.

A certificate of exemption is now required to own a dog of this breed in Ireland. The deadline for certificate applications is February 1. You can apply for a valid certificate until January 31. 

Limerick City and County Council have confirmed to Limerick Live that 20 applications have been submitted thus far, as of this Wednesday morning. 70% of those 20 applications have been approved as of January 22.

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"Remainder 30% are awaiting some outstanding documentation," a Council spokesperson said.

"None have been rejected to date."

If you do not hold a valid Certificate of Exemption after January 31 or have proof of application, the dog will be seized and thereafter may be euthanised by a veterinary officer on behalf of the Limerick City and County Council unless compliance with the regulations is subsequently proven.

The Certificate of Exemption is a once-off document that will last the lifetime of the XL Bully dog.

More information can be found on the council website.