Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 January 2018
1214. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the recent case of animal neglect at a location (details supplied); if his Department is investigating this matter; if so, the status of the investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1342/18]
View answerI am aware of and concerned at the reported incident referred to.
Officials of my Department were made aware of alleged mistreatment of equines at the site and collaborated with local stakeholders to address immediate welfare concerns and the investigation into the matter is on-going.
Under the Control of Horses Act 1996, Local Authorities and authorised officers under that Act may seize abandoned horses that are straying where animals are located on any site without the land owner’s permission. In this instance, the Gardaí assisted Tipperary County Council with the seizure of animals which were present on a number of neighbouring sites without the land owner’s approval. The horses concerned have subsequently been re-homed.
The Control of Horses Act 1996 was introduced to address the issues caused by stray and wandering horses. My Department provides financial assistance to Local Authorities for the implementation of the Act. Separately, my Department offers assistance to Local Authorities towards the development of new structures to provide shelter for the urban / traveller horse population with the aim of encouraging young people in the care and welfare of horses.
