It'll create a minimum 10 month sentence for those convicted.
A new law that would punish those who steal family pets has passed the first stage in the Dail.
The Pet Theft Bill looks to create a minimum 10 month sentence for those convicted of the crime.
In the past year the issue has come into sharp focus as more people get pets during lockdown.
The Bill was introduced by Aontu TD Peadar Tóibín, he says he hopes the measures would act as a deterrent:
Government Considers Compulsory Helmet Use For E-Scooter Riders
Orthopaedic Surgeon at Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore Prof Eoin Sheehan warns more enforcement is needed.
Westmeath Family Blogger Backs 'Mental Health' Days
Moate's Sonya Kelly and founder of hipbaby.ie thinks there's benefits - but there has to be rules.
Enterprise Minister Confirms He Was Overpaid
The Longford Westmeath TD says he's completed his repayments.
Offaly Driving Instructor Calls Out Lack Of Clear Road Markings
Joe Wynne from Wynne's School of Motoring in Tullamore feels it's a reason drivers fail their tests.
Occupied Territories Bill Needs Enactment - Brian Stanley
The Laois TD is pushing for the bill's approval.
Laois Gaelscoil To Reopen In Time For 20th Anniversary
Construction is underway at Gaelscoil Shlí Dála in Ballaghmore.
Enoch Burke To Be Re-Arrested For Repeated Trespass
It comes only two days after his fourth stint behind bars.
Laois Brothers Sentenced Over Rape And Assault Charges
Both brothers pleaded guitly to rape and indecent assault.
Laois TD Questions EirGrid On Energy Capacity
Eirgrid have been before the government's Infrastructure Committee.
Westmeath Library Re-Opening Pushed Back
The Aiden Heavey Library in Athlone had been set to reopen in mid-January.
Government Action Urged On Prison Conditions
The Irish Penal Reform Trust is slamming recent inspection reports.
Offaly GAA Club Submit New Pitch Plans
Birr GAA have also submitted plans for two new viewing stands.
Gardaí Attend Scenes Of Midlands Crashes
Black ice is a factor in these collisions.
Midlands Counties See Dramatic Fall In Housing Commencements
The figure has dropped the most in Westmeath.
Westmeath Councillor Calls For Baby Loss Certificate Scheme
The scheme acknowledges parents who experience the loss of a baby before 24 weeks.
Commemorative Walk For Ashling Murphy To Take Place In New York
It's the fifth annual walk to take place in the US city.
Sentencing Adjourned For Offaly Father Whose Son Died In Arson Attack
Tullamore Circuit Court heard yesterday from 27-year-old Aaron Holt.
Gardaí Seize Heroin, Crack Cocaine And Cash In Offaly Town
The discoveries were made after a man in Edenderry was searched.
Opposition TD Calls For Minister Overpayment Ultimatum
Ten cabinet ministers were overpaid last year and have failed to return the money.
Investigation Underway After Suspected Arson At Westmeath Home
The incident occurred in the early hours of this morning.
