Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 September 2022
289. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will ensure the use of a live goat will be prohibited during the Puck Fair going forward, given public opinion was hugely in favour of prohibiting the use of a live goat in future.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47474/22]
View answerThe Programme for Government places a positive emphasis on animal welfare and specifically commits to the continued robust enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 (Act). The general principles enshrined in Section 11 and 12 of this Act apply to all animals, including goats.
During the event, officials from my Department were in contact with the independent private veterinary practitioner attending the Fair, emphasising the need for the organisers to take steps to assure the ongoing welfare of the goat.
My Department welcomed the decision taken by the organisers, following contact between my officials and the independent veterinary practitioner at the Fair, to remove the goat from the elevated position on the Thursday morning and again on the Friday morning.
As already stated publicly, my Department will continue to keep the matter of the Puck Fair under review.
