Ruth Coppinger
Question:307. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to comment on alleged animal abuse (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27566/26]
View answerWednesday, 15 April 2026
Questions (307)
Written answers
Rásaíocht Con Éireann (RCÉ) is a commercial state body, established under the Greyhound Industry Act, 1958 chiefly to control greyhound racing and to improve and develop the greyhound industry. RCÉ is a body corporate and a separate legal entity to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
My Department takes the matter of animal welfare most seriously and is committed to the enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act, 2013. All reports of alleged animal neglect or cruelty received by the Department are investigated and appropriate action is taken.
In relation to the welfare issue referred to, RCÉ has advised my Department that this case is on-going. RCÉ welfare officers having conducted a number of inspections, of both an announced and an unannounced nature, and found that the greyhounds there were in good health. The facilities, however, were not up to the required standard. After further engagement the inspectors made the decision, under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, to have these greyhounds removed and they have been transferred into the ownership of the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust.
My Department adopts a zero tolerance approach when it comes to greyhound welfare and will continue to monitor this particular case.
Question No. 308 answered with Question No. 299.