Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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685. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will bring forward legislation with the objective of introducing strict regulations governing the use of sulkies in the practice know as sulky racing; when such legislation may be expected; if he will ensure that any such regulations will be centred on the welfare of the horse and the protection of road users from injury and even death; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26997/14]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Officials in my Department, in consultation with An Garda Síochána are currently examining whether the law governing the use of animal drawn vehicles, including the use of sulkies, on public roads  needs to be strengthened.  Depending on the outcome of these discussions, I will address this matter either in the context of the Road Traffic Bill 2014 or, if possible, through regulations.

The priority in all road traffic legislation is the safety of road users.  The safety of animals used in drawing vehicles will of course be a consideration in the development of any proposals. The wider issue of animal welfare is the responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.