XL Bully dogs are set to be banned under new regulations to be introduced in the Republic later this year.
The news comes a week after the first stage of new restrictions on XL Bully dogs came into force in the north.
The ban will be implemented in two phases between October and February. In the north the first stage of legislation was introduced on July 5, with the second stage due to be implemented from January next year.
It follows calls for tighter dog control measures after a number of high-profile dog attacks.
Nicole Morey (23) was killed in an attack last month by a dog understood to be an XL Bully in Co Limerick.
Alejandro Mizsan was nine when he was attacked by an XL Bully dog while playing with friends in Enniscorthy in November 2022. He suffered horrific injuries to his face, body and legs.
The measures were announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys on Friday.
It will be illegal to import, breed or re-sell XL Bullies from October 1, while a ban on ownership of the dogs will come into force from February 1.
Once the legislation is enacted, any person in breach of the regulations shall be guilty of an offence and be liable to a fine of up to €2,500, up to three months in prison, or both.
Ms Humphreys said she was making the decision in order to protect public safety.
The department said exemption certificates will be subject to strict criteria, including a requirement for licensing, microchipping and neutering.
From February, any owner not compliant with the new regulations will have their dog seized and euthanised.
Ms Humphreys said: “I know a lot of people will not agree with this decision.
“I’m a dog owner myself and I know people love their dogs.
“We must be mindful however that no dog’s life is worth more than human life. Ultimately that is what guided me in making this decision.
“The XL bully was responsible for the horrific attack on Alejandro Mizsan in Wexford last year and it was also the breed which killed a young woman in Limerick recently.
“If we do not take action now the number of these dogs in the country will grow and my fear is that these attacks will become more frequent.
“It is my strong view that Ireland should not be out of step with neighbouring jurisdictions in Northern Ireland and the UK on this matter.”
