asked the Minister for Justice whether he is aware of the numerous complaints concerning damage to gardens and farms in and around the Galway City area caused by wandering animals which are the property of itinerants, and what action it is proposed to take in the matter.

I am aware of complaints regarding the damage in question but there is no action that I can usefully take in the matter.

Where the police find animals wandering on the public roads they impound the animals and prosecute the owners. Where damage is caused to private property, which is a matter for remedy by way of civil proceedings, the police will furnish any information in their possession as to the ownership of the animals to the injured party.

Is the Minister aware that the people are now prepared to take the law into their own hands in this matter? The situation is so serious that it is up to the Minister to take immediate action.