Mulherin welcomes new animal welfare guidelines for horses

Fine Gael TD for Mayo, Michelle Mulherin, has today, welcomed the launch of new animal welfare guidelines for horses at gatherings and sales by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney TD. These guidelines were produced by the Farm Animal Welfare Advisory Council (FAWAC).  

“Animal welfare is a cause about which I am passionate. I have regularly advocated on behalf of animal welfare charities and organisation and I am very pleased that guidelines for horses at gatherings and sales have been introduced.

“There is a great love of horses in Irish rural life and I believe that it is essential that we care for and look after these animals in the way they deserve. Unfortunately this does not always happen on account of a small minority of people.

“The guidelines launched today will assist those responsible for horses at fairs, marts and sales, and they will ensure that the highest standards are maintained in caring for these valuable animals.   Horses and ponies are extremely important to the Irish economy in providing employment.  

“Under the new guidelines provisions have been made for:

·          Freedom from hunger, thirst and malnutrition

·          Freedom from pain, injury and disease

·          Freedom from fear and distress

·          Freedom from discomfort

·          Freedom to express normal patterns of behaviour

“The guidelines announced this week highlight this Government’s dedication to guaranteeing the best conditions and standards for horses. As well as the new animal welfare guidelines, regulations have also been introduced relating to the control of places where horses are kept, the identification of horses and transfer of ownership of horses.“