Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent)
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266. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the necessary funding will be provided to Tipperary County Council to employ a full-time horse warden or wardens to ensure the prevention of maltreatment of horses and ponies in the county and to further ensure the microchipping and passporting of all horses and ponies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10213/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The employment of 'horse wardens' is a matter for the local authorities to consider. Local authorities are responsible for enforcement of the Control of Horses Act 1996, and already have the authority to appoint authorised officers under the 1996 Act.

The Department provides financial assistance to the authorities for implementation of the Act and is available to support initiatives by local authorities that address problems associated with straying or urban horses.

I am also committed to providing additional funding in support of animal welfare organisations in the coming years. Last December, I awarded record funding of over €3.7 million to 98 animal welfare organisations countrywide, many of which are engaged in equine welfare activities.