Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
897. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on measures to protect the welfare of urban horses, in particular in relation to the welfare of horses used in sulky racing; the engagement his Department has had with the Department of Transport in relation to recent events (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30396/26]
View answerI am aware of the report to which the Deputy refers.
Animal welfare is a key priority for me as Minister and for the Government. The welfare of equines is protected by legislation and there is a commitment in the Programme for Government to prioritise equine welfare and to build on existing inspectorate supports across the country, ensuring a consistent approach to dealing with horse welfare. It must be emphasised that primary responsibility for the health and welfare of equines lies with the owner or keeper.
In line with the Programme for Government and our current Animal Welfare Strategy, which is in the process of being renewed, I also support sustainable initiatives which includes nationwide urban horse projects. Working with local authorities, charities and community stakeholders, these projects have proven very successful, aimed at equine welfare and marginalised communities, fostering community leadership and education in responsible horse ownership for young people.
My Department has spent over €2.1 million from 2015 to date, on urban horse projects, with €170,000 allocated for 2026. There are currently seven live projects, and I would welcome new submissions from local authorities to develop urban horse projects in their respective areas.
It is important to note that the use of sulkies on public roads specifically, as with the use of all vehicles, including animal-drawn vehicles, is governed by the relevant provisions of the Roads and Road Traffic Acts. Matters 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.
In December 2025, my Department provided funding of almost €6.5 million to 94 animal welfare charities throughout the country, under the Animal Welfare Grants programme. Of that figure, just over €4 million was awarded to charities involved in the care and welfare of horses.
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.
