Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 339: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the role of the Garda in regard to the prosecution of persons perpetrating cruelty against animals; the reason gardaí on duty at the Ballinasloe horse fair failed to take action when their attention was drawn to cruel practices (details supplied); if the Garda will liaise with the fair organisers to exclude from the fair in 2006 those elements which organise such practices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27350/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed that the Garda Síochána investigate all allegations of persons perpetrating cruelty against animals and prosecutions are taken against such persons, where evidence is obtained.

I am further informed that the Garda Síochána in Ballinasloe have a close liaison with the Irish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, ISPCA. Representatives of the ISPCA are present during the Ballinasloe horse fair. Allegations of cruelty made by members of the public are initially examined by the ISPCA in conjunction with on-site veterinary surgeons. Gardaí are formally notified where evidence of cruelty exists and an investigation is then commenced.

In respect of this year's fair, one complaint of alleged cruelty was made to gardaí on 2 October. The Garda authorities have advised me that they made contact with the ISPCA, which reported back that upon investigation there was no substance to the complaint. I am informed that the person to whom the Deputy refers did not make any complaint to the Garda authorities of cruelty to animals at the fair.

There is no legislative provision to exclude from the fair any particular individual or groups of people. I am assured that the Garda Síochána hold regular meetings with the fair organisers to review the ongoing operation of the fair including the treatment of animals.