Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 March 2026
390. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on measures to protect the welfare of urban horses, horses used in sulky racing or for drawing carriages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23329/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAnimal 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 I would welcome new submissions from local authorities to develop urban horse projects in their respective areas.
The 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 An Garda Síochána, Customs agents, local authorities and the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA), undertake appropriate enforcement action, where breaches or shortcomings are identified.
In December 2025, I awarded funding of almost €6.5 million to 94 animal welfare charities nationwide, under the Animal Welfare Grants Programme. Of this award, 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.
