Pádraig Rice (Cork South-Central, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

611. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the mistreatment of horses in County Clare (details supplied); the steps he is taking to ensure that those who are responsible for this cruelty are held accountable; to outline the legislation that is in place to protect animals when they are involved in events such as fairs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35366/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department takes the matter of animal welfare most seriously and responds to any reports of alleged animal cruelty or legislative non-compliance. The Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, provides a modern framework for regulating and applying standards in the area of animal health and welfare, for all animals.

My Department is aware of this case but does not comment on individual cases.

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.