Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

92. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is satisfied that there is sufficient legislation to deal with the challenge of wandering and stray horses in urban areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53097/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this important topic and it is one that I take very seriously.

The Control of Horses Act 1996 provides powers to Local Authorities enabling them to appoint authorised officers under the Act to control stray and wandering horses in their areas. Enforcement of the Act is a matter for each Local Authority and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine provides financial support to assist with these enforcement measures.

The scale and extent of straying equines has reduced significantly and consistently in recent years. Almost 5,000 horses were seized in 2014. In 2021, 477 horses were seized by Local Authorities.

The Control of Horses Act is currently under review with a view to simplifying and further improving the legislation. Plans are advancing and consultation with the Local Authorities is ongoing.

A broad stakeholder engagement process will follow, to facilitate a cohesive national approach in considering and implementing the proposals.

The Department also takes a preventive approach to equine welfare challenges by supporting initiatives educating young people in the care and welfare of horses. This work is carried out in close collaboration with the Local Authorities across the country.