Local Fianna Fáil Senator Erin McGreehan has said the ban on XL Bully dogs will reduce the number of horrific attacks on the public.

The Government today, Friday, 12 July 2024, announced a ban on XL Bully dogs to protect public safety following consultation with the Stakeholder Group on Dog Control and retired Deputy Garda Commissioner John Twomey.

From October 1st 2024, new regulations will prohibit the importing, breeding, selling and re-homing of XL Bullies.

From February 1st 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully without a ‘Certificate of Exemption’.

The move comes following a number of horrible attacks by XL Bullies including the death of a young woman, Nicole Morey, in Limerick.

Senator McGreehan said: “The ban on XL Bully dogs is hugely welcome. The Government has priortised tighter dog control measures due to an increase in horrific attacks. Limerick woman Nicole Morey died after being attacked outside her home by an XL Bully dog. These dogs are a public safety issue.

“This ban should reduce the frequency of these terrible attacks as it will make it illegal to breed, sell, import, rehome, exchange, gift or abandon XL Bully dogs.

“Without these new measures I fear there could be further fatal attacks by these dogs.”

She added that these new rules will bring Ireland’s dog control laws in line with Northern Ireland and the UK.  

Over the period 1st October 2024 to 1st February 2025 all existing XL Bully owners will have to apply for a Certificate of Exemption.

Certificates of Exemption will be issued subject to strict criteria, including a requirement for licensing, microchipping and neutering. Other possible criteria will be discussed with the Stakeholder Group on Dog Control put in place to advise on these issues.

After 1st February 2025, any owner not compliant with the new regulations will have their dog seized and euthanized.

ENDS