asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the increase in the number of horses roaming loose in the Finglas area, Dublin, he will increase substantially the recovery fee for impounded animals and impose a limited period for payment.

The fees prescribed in respect of impounded animals are intended to cover fair remuneration for the impounding, care, sustenance and attendance on such animals, and it would be improper for me to prescribe a fee which would include a penalty element, as the Deputy suggests.

On the general question of wandering horses in the area, I understand that a temporary corral is being erected by Dublin Corporation adjacent to Finglas Garda station and animals found wandering may be kept there until such time as they can be transferred to the pound at Clontarf or at Churchtown. This should be of some assistance in overcoming the problem.