I propose to take Questions Nos. 1860 to 1863, inclusive, together.
Officials from my Department and the Department of Rural and Community Development met last week to discuss the setting up of this working group, which is a priority for both Departments. The Terms of Reference and composition for the Working Group on Control of Dogs are being finalised and further details will be available in the near future.
There is a clear commitment from both Ministers and Departments tackle this issue and ensure that the law is as robust as possible to ensure that both people and animals are safe.
Our dogs are more than pets, they are our companions and loyal friends. However, scenes we have witnessed recently show the threat dogs can pose if they are not properly controlled by their owners. Both Minister Humphreys and I will work proactively on this in the time ahead.