The Taoiseach and Tánaiste have both given their backing to a legal ban on dangerous dogs such as the XL bully. 

In recent months, restrictions were introduced by Governments across the United Kingdom following a spate of fatal attacks by the breed on people. 

Last week, 23-year-old Nicole Morey died, reportedly after an attack by a XL bully, and was laid to rest on Monday. 

An XL bully. Credit: Justin Griffiths-Williams/Alamy Live News

A cross-governmental working group is currently exploring the issue of restricted breeds of dogs and Taoiseach Simon Harris said it was his “instinctive” view that a ban is needed.  

“I am happy to hear from the taskforce,” he told Newstalk. 

“I think when you set up a taskforce and put experts on it, it’s important to listen to them. 

“But what I certainly know is action is needed and I certainly want this taskforce to come to a conclusion as a matter of urgency.”   

Tánaiste Micheál Martin said he did not think people should keep an XL bully as a pet. 

“I would favour the banning of particular dogs - restricted breeds in particular who are a danger to people and children in particular,” he said. 

“I’ve been saying this for quite some time and I can never comprehend why one would want to have such dogs given their danger.”  

American XL bully

Speaking on Lunchtime Live last week, Clinical Animal Behaviourist Maureen Byrne advised against keeping XL bullies as pets. 

“I’ve met some lovely ones,” she said.

“But the problem with them is that they don’t have the same behavioural development that other breeds of dog have when it comes to living as a pet animal.”

Any ban would require legislation to be passed by the Oireachtas.

Main image: Tánaiste Micheál Martin, Taoiseach Simon Harris and Minister Eamon Ryan. Photograph: Sasko Lazarov / © RollingNews.ie