Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 680: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the problems in the horse sector specifically the need for a scheme to reduce breeding mare numbers in order to achieve equilibrium in the market place and to reduce problems of animal welfare arising from poor returns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12389/10]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 695: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the animal welfare issues arising from the current economic climate and the substantial increase in the horse population in recent years; the initiatives he plans in this area including possible market intervention and increased competition for horses for the food chain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12557/10]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 680 and 695 together

In an effort to support the equine industry I have approved three plants for slaughter of horses and I am aware that a fourth plant has been approved by the Local Authority Veterinary Service. This element of choice should improve competition and price paid to the producer.

I do not propose to introduce a scheme to reduce breeding mare numbers, it is for the industry itself to respond to changes in the market place and to educate and increase awareness among owners on responsible breeding particularly in the current economic environment.

In relation to equine welfare generally, owners have the primary responsibility for the welfare of their animals. Local authorities also have extensive powers under the Control of Horses Act, 1996. Officials of my Department have met with representatives of the local authorities to emphasise their responsibilities and the importance of their ongoing work in helping to reduce the number of potential horse welfare problems, particularly with regard to those horses being abandoned by their owners. My Department currently provides annual funding in the region of €2 million to assist local authorities in their work in implementing the Control of Horses Act. I have also approved payments totalling €1.185m to 112 organisations involved in the direct delivery of animal care and welfare services to assist with their work during 2010. A number of these organisations are directly involved in equine welfare.