asked the Minister for Health if she 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 she 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 am not aware of any public health risk as a result of an escape of reptiles from the premises referred to by the Deputy. I do not consider that it would be appropriate for me to introduce legislation.