Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)
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1744. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the recent report by an organisation (details supplied) on breaches in pig welfare in Irish pig enterprises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20508/25]

Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)
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1745. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on the reported investigation on pig welfare that his Department has undertaken since the revelations by an organisation (details supplied) on breaches of animal welfare legislation. [20509/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1744 and 1745 together.

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.

My Department received footage from the organisation named in the details supplied in March 2025, regarding a number of pig farms they had investigated. I can confirm 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.

The dedicated e-mail address and Helpline in place for reporting suspected cases of animal welfare are:

Email address – animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie

Helpline Phone No: 01 607 2379.