asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware of the risks to the community at large generated by the escape of reptiles from a premises (details supplied) in Dublin; and if he will take steps, if necessary by the introduction of legislation, to ensure adequate safeguards against the escape from custody of reptiles and other dangerous species.

I have no specific functions in relation to the control of reptiles and other dangerous species. It is understood that the use of the premises as a reptile centre is not covered by planning permission. It is a matter for the Dublin Corporation, as the planning authority, to decide on any action that might be taken to deal with that situation.