Woman dies following dog attack in Limerick

A 23-year-old woman has died following a dog attack at a residence in Ballyneety, County Limerick.

The incident happened at approximately 11.40pm  on Tuesday night. The woman was pronounced deceased at the scene by medical personnel.

Her body has been removed from the scene to Mid Western Regional Hospital, Limerick, where a Post Mortem examination will take place.

The animal believed to be involved in the incident has now been destroyed. A number of other dogs have been seized.

An investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Roxboro Road Garda Station on (061) 214 340, the Garda Confidential line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Minister for Social Protection and Rural affairs, Heather Humphreys said she was "absolutely appalled" by the incident.

“I want to begin by expressing my deepest sympathies to her family in what is a deeply shocking incident.

“A Garda investigation is underway and it’s important we establish the facts on what happened.

“I have consistently said that more action is required in relation to dog control.

“That’s why I have set up a cross Governmental stakeholder group, chaired by the retired Deputy Garda Commissioner John Twomey, to examine this whole area. That Group’s work is underway.

“I have asked the Group to examine the restricted breeds list, in line with actions being taken in the UK and Northern Ireland.

“I am committed to working with colleagues across Government in taking whatever action is necessary to strengthen our dog control laws.”