Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 October 2023
414. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is aware of the accusations of animal abuse at the Ballinasloe fair (details supplied); if his Department’s inspectors were in attendance the entire time; if he will provide details of any reports they made; the number of animals that were confiscated; and if any prosecutions were brought. [44683/23]
View answerMy Department’s confidential animal welfare helpline has received correspondence regarding the Ballinasloe Fair. Case reports which are received are referred for investigation by Department officials and appropriate actions may be taken, up to and including prosecution.
Officers from my Department, the ISPCA and An Garda Síochána were in attendance during the course of the event. A number of animals were seized and surrendered on welfare ground during the course of the fair.
My Department does not comment further on cases which may be under investigation.
If the Deputy, or the public, are aware of any cases of suspected abuse or neglect, contact my Department's animal welfare helpline on:
Helpline Phone No: 01 607 2379
Email address - animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie
