Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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23. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to numerous incidents whereby fox hunts have converged on populated areas and estates causing danger to the public; his views on whether legislation is needed in view of the fact that the code of conduct holds no provision for sanctions; and his further views on following the UK example and banning this practice. [18187/18]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of and concerned about the reported incidents in Macroom, Castlemaine and on the M3.

The Hunting Association of Ireland has a detailed Code of Conduct in place in respect of the hunting of foxes. I am concerned and disappointed that despite the existence of this Code, these events occurred. I have asked my officials to engage with the Hunting Association to seek explanations and to determine whether, in light of these events, the Code needs updating.

A detailed debate was held on the issue of hunting during the passage of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 through the Oireachtas and the Dail voted to allow the continuation on fox hunting in accordance with an appropriate Code of Conduct.

The prevalence of a local fox population can be a cause of serious concern to owners of livestock and in particular poultry. However, the Act makes it clear that hunting must occur in a lawful fashion, which avoids wilful or unnecessary cruelty such as hunting an animal that has been released in an injured or exhausted condition.

My Department is fully committed to promoting good practices that respect the welfare of all animals. Evidence of breaches can be reported to the Animal Welfare Hotline operated by my Department on Call Save 0761064408; phone 016072379; Email .