Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 February 2018
80. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the code of conduct relating to fox hunting; the sanctions if there are breaches; if legislation will be introduced in view of the incident in Macroom on 26 December 2017 when a hunt entered a housing estate raising issues around public safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6792/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of, and concerned at, the reported incident in Macroom, Co Cork.
Detailed debate was held around the issue of hunting during the passage of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 and the Dail voted overwhelmingly to allow the continuation on fox hunting in accordance with an appropriate Code of Conduct.
The prevalence of a local fox population can be a cause of serious concern to owners of livestock and in particular poultry. However, the Act makes it clear that hunting must occur in a lawful fashion, which avoids wilful or unnecessary cruelty such as hunting an animal that has been released in an injured or exhausted condition.
The Hunting Association of Ireland has a detailed Code of Conduct in place in respect of the hunting of foxes. I am disappointed that despite the existence of this Code, this event occurred. I have asked my officials to engage with the Hunting Association to determine whether, in light of this event, the Code needs updating.
My Department is fully committed to promoting good practices that respect the welfare of all animals. Evidence of breaches can be reported to the Animal Welfare Hotline operated by my Department on Call Save 0761064408; phone 016072379; Email animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie.
