Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine to discuss horse welfare concerns and compliance with legislation with city and county managers

Ahead of the meeting at 7pm in Committee Room 3 of Leinster House, Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Jackie Cahill said: “Animal welfare is a key priority for this Committee, including the strengthening of the legislation governing the welfare of horses and supports for equine projects across the country.

“The welfare and trespass of horses are becoming major issues. Trespass on public roads is a growing road safety issue. There have been several incidents in recent months with loose horses on public roads, and if this is not addressed, there is major concern that this issue will cause fatalities on our roads.

“Members are particularly interested in examining the implementation and enforcement of existing animal welfare laws and recommendations for updating and strengthening the legislative framework, including the Control of Horses Act 1996. We especially wish to hear the views of the CCMA, since local authorities are responsible under this Act for the seizure, detention, impoundment, notice and disposal of stray horses.”

The Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine has 14 Members, nine from the Dáil and five from the Seanad.

The meeting in Committee Room 3 can be viewed live on Oireachtas TV.

Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.