Minister for the Environment John Gormley with retriever Eggnog at
the Dublin SPCA yesterday. Photograph Brenda Fitzsimons

The day has finally arrived, a first step in seeing Irish animal welfare legislation up to international standards. Lack of legislation meant Ireland had become known as ''puppy breeding farm of Europe'' so it's a very happy result for everyone involved. Click here to read the full story as reported by Ronan McGreevy (irishtimes.com)