Controversial ban on XL Bully dogs to come into force this weekend

The ban imposed on XL Bully dogs last year will come into effect on Saturday, 1 February following a number of dog attacks in recent times. 

New legislation was introduced in October which made it illegal to import, breed, rehome or resell XL Bully dogs. These dogs are the largest of the American bully breed.

Animal shelters and XL Bully charities were given until 1 February to rehome or export them. 

READ NEXT: Met Éireann issues latest weather update ahead of bank holiday weekend

The ban means that as of Saturday it will be illegal to keep an XL Bully unless the owner has a certificate of exemption or proof that they have applied for one.

Local authorities can grant this certificate which allows the owner to keep the dog until the natural end of the dog's life. The certificate proves that the dog is neutered, licensed and microchipped. So far, 235 certs have been issued.

Anyone found in breach of the new ban will have committed a criminal offence under the 1986 Control of Dogs Act. If owners are found without certificates they can be subject to imprisonment of up to three months or receive a fine of up to €2,500, or both. The dog may also be seized and euthanised. 

The ban has caused controversy throughout the country with many people citing the new rule as unfair and discriminatory. It follows similar legislation introduced across the UK recently.