Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Nov 2000

Vol. 525 No. 2

Written Answers. - Fox Hunting.

Tony Gregory

Question:

345 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if his Department independently investigates allegations of abuses in fox hunting other than to request the Hunting Association of Ireland to investigate (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24588/00]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh):

As I pointed out in my reply to Question No. 75 of 25 May 2000, the Hunting Association of Ireland (HAI) introduced rules and procedures in August 1998 which I have copied to the Deputy. The rules and procedures apply to the affiliate bodies of the HAI, including the Irish Masters of Foxhounds Association, the Irish Masters of Harriers Association and the Irish Foot Harriers Association. The HAI took this action in response to my concern about certain practices associated with fox hunting and following discussion with my Department.

I am aware of only two complaints having been made and investigated since the rules and procedures were put in place. I have no plans for my Department to investigate such complaints.

However, I have received specific written assurances from the hunting bodies that they are committed to ensuring compliance with and enforcement of the rules and procedures and to imposing severe sanctions on anyone found not to have complied with them. I have accepted in good faith such assurances and have no reason to believe that any allegations of breaches of the rules and procedures which might be made will not be fully and properly investigated by the HAI in accordance with the principles of natural justice.