Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) is a commercial state body established under the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act, 2001, and is responsible for the overall administration, promotion and development of the horse racing industry.
My Department takes the matter of equine welfare most seriously. The welfare of equines is protected by legislation and appropriate enforcement action is undertaken by my Department and authorised officers under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, including An Garda Síochána, Customs agents, authorised officers appointed by local authorities, and, through service level agreements, authorised officers of the ISPCA, DSPCA, IHRB and Rásaíocht Con Éireann, where breaches or shortcomings are identified. Any reports of welfare issues received by my Department, including breaches of the animal welfare legislation, are acted upon and investigated.
Exchequer support provided from the Horse and Greyhound Fund is crucial to the survival and continued development of the Horse Racing Industry. The future of the industry is dependent on a strong governance platform and on the industries having the highest standards of integrity and welfare founded on a strong regulatory system.
The welfare of thoroughbreds is a matter of importance for my Department and as a condition of the funding HRI receives from my Department, it is required to continue its work with all industry stakeholders to ensure that equine welfare is central to all of its activities. I note that the matter of equine welfare is a key priority of HRI's current five-year strategy and HRI have been requested to keep my Department apprised of all activities in this area.
