Animal welfare is a key priority for me as Minister and for the Government. My Department has lead policy responsibility within government for animal welfare and takes the matter of animal welfare most seriously. I am committed to the policy that animal welfare standards are vigorously applied in a fair and even-handed manner.
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.
My Department continues to support urban horse projects nationwide, working with local authorities, charities and community stakeholders. These projects have proven very successful and are aimed specifically at equine welfare and marginalised communities. The projects can foster community leadership and education in responsible horse ownership for young people. Typically, support and arrangements for these projects are provided by the Local Authorities. The funding provided by my Department, is paid through Local Authorities to support these projects and my Department welcomes further submissions, through local authorities, for assistance in the context of the Urban Horse Projects scheme.
My Department is responsible for all policy and legislation in relation to the Control of Horses Act 1996. However, operation of the Act comes under the remit of Local Authorities.
Under the Control of Horses Act 1996, local authorities may take a range of actions in relation to equines including prohibiting horses in certain areas, the issuing of licences, the seizure of horses in contravention of the Act and re-homing of horses.
These powers can be used in respect of straying horses, which includes horses put on land without the owner’s permission, including public land, Local authorities may also prosecute offenders. The Control of Horses Act 1996, is currently under review within my Department and plans for replacement legislation are advancing.
The Programme for Government also commits 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.
My Department keeps the Act under review in light of key developments in the area of animal health and welfare, the legislative environment more generally, and having regard to the practical lessons learned from operating the Act.
I recently commenced the process of developing Ireland’s second Animal Welfare Strategy, which will run for the period 2026-2030. My Department is analysing all submissions received in the public consultation that ran from November 2025 to January 2026, to help inform the new strategy.
In December 2025, I announced 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 also 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
