Sinn Féin’s Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty is calling for immediate action and accountability following an RTÉ Investigates programme that uncovered shocking abuse towards horses, including the repeated beating of dying animals. Illegal activities such as identity laundering for horses have been discovered at a site linked to Ireland’s only active horse abattoir.
The Department of Agriculture and Gardaí conducted searches at Shannonside Foods Ltd in Co. Kildare as a result of the investigations prompted by the RTÉ programme. Despite these mistreatments happening under the nose of government inspectors, no welfare issues were reported.
Minister for Finance Michael McGrath expressed his disgust and promised a thorough investigation into the matter. He reassured the public that the government condemns these practices and will enforce the law rigorously if proven guilty in court.
Horse Sport Ireland also condemned the practices outlined in the documentary and vowed to cooperate with any investigations. It is crucial to address the concerning issues raised regarding public health and misuse of microchips and passports in the equine industry.
While these actions are alarming, it’s important to remember that they do not represent the broader equine industry, which many individuals in the sector are deeply passionate about.
Let’s hope that justice prevails and the necessary measures are taken to prevent such atrocities in the future.