397 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the proposed Animal Health and Welfare Bill; when it is proposed to publish this Bill; and when it is proposed to bring this bill before the Houses of the Oireachtas. [11243/10]

The Animal Health and Welfare Bill which gives effect to commitments in the Programme for Government and the Renewed Programme for Government on issues relating to animal health and welfare is being prepared in my Department. The new legislation will amend and consolidate legislation in the area of animal health, particularly to reflect the changed disease status of our animals. Existing legislation will also be updated to ensure that the welfare of all animals, including non-farm animals is properly protected and that the penalties for offenders are increased significantly. The Bill also provides for the consolidation of responsibility for the welfare of all animals (including non-farm animals) within my Department. I intend to submit the proposed heads of this Bill to the Government at an early date this year.