Pádraig Rice (Cork South-Central, Social Democrats)
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740. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the mistreatment of horses in Clonmel, County Tipperary (details supplied); the steps he is taking to ensure that those who are responsible for this cruelty are held accountable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25943/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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My Department takes the matter of animal welfare most seriously and responds to any reports of alleged animal cruelty or legislative non-compliance. Neglect of or causing unnecessary suffering to animals is not acceptable in our society. I am committed to the policy that animal welfare standards are vigorously applied in a fair and even-handed manner.

The welfare of equines is protected by legislation and appropriate enforcement action is taken where breaches or shortcomings are identified. My Department is aware of this incident but cannot comment on individual cases which may be the subject of investigation. Primary responsibility for protecting the welfare of equines rests with the owner or keeper.

My Department operates a confidential animal welfare helpline through which members of the public can report incidents of animal cruelty or neglect for investigation to Phone No 01 607 2379 and email address animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie.