Hildegarde Naughton
Ceist:2032. Deputy Hildegarde Naughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the support provided to urban horse welfare projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31519/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 23 July 2019
Ceisteanna (2032)
Freagraí scríofa
In November 2014, Local Authorities were informed of details of an initial fund of €1 million being made available by my Department to develop facilities for urban/traveller horse projects.
Expressions of interest were sought from those authorities who wished to initiate projects. While initial uptake was slow, several projects are currently being progressed by local authorities in conjunction with animal welfare organisations. The total draw down of funds since the fund’s inception is €1.2m.
The Department also supports education projects both in and outside the urban horse projects.
The projects are a positive and welcome development and assist urban/traveller horse owners in complying with equine-related legislation including identification and control of horses. Education courses provided within the framework of the projects give the horse owners an opportunity to acquire skills in relation to caring and managing horses alongside a broader education.