Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the Deputy's consistent interest in this area and the collaborative efforts made by my Department, local authorities and charitable bodies. The graph is going in the right direction. That being said, we are all shamed by such incidents, which get a lot of traction, particularly on social media. Sometimes they distort the endeavour that is under way and the very good work being done by all the aforementioned in terms of trying to address this problem. The statistics clearly show this good work, although one cannot hide behind them when one is confronted by the graphic images we see. The Deputy referred to Tipperary County Council.

The appointment of horse wardens is an issue for local authorities, not the Department, but where there are specific problems, it might be a response they consider to be appropriate.

It is important that we all continue to collaborate. We are making great progress. The legislative framework is in place and there have been high-profile prosecutions which are important, although I often think they are a reflection of the ultimate failure. We ought to work with a lot less stick and more carrot, but we must retain the stick.

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