Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 March 2026
686. Deputy Conor Sheehan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department collaborates with the Department of Transport to identify horse welfare breaches occurring on public roads; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16289/26]
View answerThe use of sulkies on public roads, as with the use of all vehicles, including animal-drawn vehicles, is governed by the relevant provisions of the Roads and Road Traffic Acts. Issues in connection with this legislation are a matter for my colleague the Minister for Transport. In addition, the drivers of all vehicles used on public roads, including horse-drawn carriages, are required to comply with road traffic legislation and to behave in a safe manner paying due care to other road users. The enforcement of such road traffic legislation is a matter for An Garda Síochána.
My Department is committed to the continued robust enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, which provides a modern framework for regulating and applying standards in the area of animal health and welfare. In this regard, my Department and authorised officers appointed under the Act, including, amongst others, An Garda Síochána, undertake appropriate enforcement action, where breaches or shortcomings are identified.
My Department operates a confidential animal welfare helpline through which members of the public can report incidents of animal cruelty or neglect for investigation. The dedicated email address and helpline in place for reporting suspected cases of animal welfare are:
Helpline Phone No: 01 607 2379.
Email address - [animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie]
All reports of alleged neglect or cruelty received by my Department are investigated and appropriate action is taken.
