Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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99. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 183 of 19 May 2015, if he will clarify the points made in his reply (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22673/15]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) is a commercial state body responsible for the overall administration, promotion and development of the horse racing industry. The Racing Regulatory Body (Irish Turf Club) is a private body charged under the current legislation with responsibility for the integrity and the reputation of Irish racing in Ireland and Internationally.

I have responded in detail to questions previously put down regarding issues raised by the person to whom the Deputy refers. I have explained, in earlier replies my Department’s responsibilities with regard to the welfare of horses and options open to the individual should he wish to further progress complaints relating to the welfare of horses.

Regarding the significance of the date 6^thMarch 2014, the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 was commenced on that date and arising from its commencement, all animal welfare matters now come within the remit of my Department. Accordingly, my Department is in a position to investigate allegations of animal abuse occurring since the commencement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act.

Horse Racing Ireland and the Turf Club have confirmed to my Department that they have fully examined all matters under their remit in respect of this issue and they have apprised the person concerned of the outcome. It is for the owner of the race horses to decide if he wishes to report matters to the Gardaí or indeed if he wishes to institute civil proceedings.

The correspondence the Deputy refers to is in relation to a Freedom of Information query regarding records my Department held concerning the name of the horse that was inspected. My Department confirmed with the person concerned that the correct horse had been inspected and that it was not necessary to alter the records held.