Vol. 401 No. 2
25 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice the level of penalties applicable to the owners of stray horses; and if he has any plans to increase the penalties in an effort to reduce the nuisance and damage being caused by these animals.
The Animals Act, 1985, substantially increased the fines for allowing animals to wander on the public road. The maximum fine was increased from a nominal 10p, in existence since 1851, to £150 for a first such offence. These fines also apply to the offence of turning animals loose on the road. The previous fine in this case was 50p.
I am satisfied that the above level of fines are adequate and I have no plans at present to increase them.
