Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, Solidarity)
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137. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will report on the progress of his Department’s investigation into the animal welfare issues raised in a recent investigation into Irish pig farms by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13711/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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The Programme for Government places an emphasis on animal welfare and specifically commits to the continued robust enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, which provides a modern framework for regulating and applying standards in the area of animal health and welfare.

My Department takes its responsibilities for protecting animal welfare most seriously and strongly condemns any cruelty or mistreatment of animals. It should be noted that we have robust legislation in this country to protect the welfare of all animals and in the case of pigs there is sector specific legislation in place which is based on existing EU rules. It is my Department’s policy to investigate all allegations of illegal or criminal behaviour and to pursue legal action where appropriate.

I can confirm that my Department received footage from the organisation named in the details supplied during the week of March 10th, regarding a number of pig farms they had investigated. I can confirm also that my Department is reviewing the footage and that action will be taken to fully investigate and follow up any evidence of breaches of the pig welfare legislation. My Department does not comment on individual investigations.

My Department operates a confidential animal welfare helpline through which members of the public can report incidents of animal cruelty or neglect for investigation.