asked the Minister for the Environment if he will introduce legislation to deal with the problem of wandering horses on public roads.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wandering Houses.
2.
In so far as the law on roads and road traffic is concerned, the question of an amendment in regard to this subject will be considered in association with other amendments of the appropriate legislation.
Would the Minister agree that because of this problem of wandering horses fatalities have taken place on the roads? Would the Minister also agree that he has responsibility for safety on Irish roads and has appeared on television appealing to road users to be more careful? There is no use in appealing to horses but certainly the Minister has a big responsibility.
That is a seperate question.
I watch here every day the imitators of Jimmy O'Dea and Jack Cruise——
That is why the Chair is so anxious not to make exceptions.
My supplementary is relevant because I am talking about effective legislation to eliminate wandering horses from our roads. Every day they are causing damage to life and property because the present legislation is ineffective. I appeal to the Minister to introduce legislation as soon as possible. There is no use in appearing on television and appearing to be sincere about safety on the roads.
(Interruptions.)
Order. That is a horse of a different colour.
We have them in Limerick, whatever about Donegal.
These cases are often handled under the Summary Jurisdiction Act of 1851, but the penalties are very small. The gardaí can summon the owners under section 98 of the Road Traffic Act, 1961, if there is an element of obstruction involved. The position is that road traffic law falls to be amended from time to time and amendment of its provisions will be considered in due course and this matter will be taken into account.
Has the Minister given consideration to the report of the Law Reform Commission in this regard?
That will be taken into account when new legislation is being drafted.
Would the Minister give an indication as to when new legislation can be expected in this area?
No. It is not high on my Department's priority list.
In fact, nothing will be done.
It will take some time.