andMr. O'Donnell asked the Minister for Justice the action, if any, he proposes to take regarding the serious problem being created by wandering horses in Limerick city.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Limerick Wandering Horses.
18.
The Garda Síochána say that the serious problems created by wandering horses in Limerick are mainly attributable to the absence of suitable pound facilities there. The only available pound is inadequate in that it is situated near the city centre and access to it is difficult because of heavy traffic.
I am aware of certain proposals by Limerick Corporation for the erection of a new pound outside the centre city area which I hope could go some way to relieve the problem there.
Deputy Tunney wanted to have them shot. A couple of years ago he wanted snipers sent into these areas to shoot them.
There was a member of Deputy Kelly's party who suggested others—those who have another connection with wandering horses.
(Cavan-Monaghan): The Minister's party know something about shooting.
Is the Minister aware that the impounding of horses is not the real problem? Effective legislation is required and the Minister knows this. The Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy and other Deputies from the region promised the tenants' associations in the area that they would effect proper legislation when in power to deal with this serious problem. I am not worried about gardens being destroyed and cars being damaged; they are material things and can be replaced. What about the lives that are lost throughout the country because of wandering horses? When will the Minister bring in effective legislation? Recently in Limerick some of these people were apprehended, brought before the court and fined £3 and the person who respected the court and made an appearance was let off. The Minister must introduce effective legislation to deal with this problem.