'Impossible to ignore'- Thousands sign NSPCA petition to ban sulky racing in Ireland
There is serious concerns surrounding sulky racing in Ireland due to the dangers it poses to the horses involved and the general public
The National Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) is calling on people in Ireland to sign a petition calling on the Government to introduce a legal ban on sulky horse activity on public roads.
The petition ─ which people can view and sign on Uplift.ie here ─ outlines that the NSPCA is asking the Government to:
- Introduce a legal prohibition on sulky horse activity on public roads, including racing, training, and high-speed driving.
- Develop a coordinated multi-agency approach involving the Departments of Justice, Agriculture, Transport, and Rural & Community Development, together with local authorities, An Garda Síochána and the NSPCA.
- Strengthen enforcement powers and provide Gardaí with additional resources and training.
- Develop a digital evidence management system and an online reporting portal for video evidence submissions to An Garda Síochána relating to incidents involving horses and sulkies on public roads.
- Provide adequate animal welfare supports, facilities, and resources for the safe handling, rehabilitation, rehoming, or seizure of horses where necessary, including support measures for situations where owners may no longer wish or be able to keep their horses.
Director of advocacy with the NSPCA Conor Dowling said: “For years, sulky horse activity on Irish public roads has been tolerated. However, the risks posed to both horses and the public are becoming impossible to ignore.
“Recent incidents involving horses and sulkies on public roads have once again highlighted serious concerns relating to animal welfare and road safety. The current legal position continues to create difficulties around enforcement and accountability.
“Horses should not be placed in dangerous situations on busy public roads, and communities should not have to continue facing the public safety risks associated with this activity.”
Political officer with the NSPCA Claire Owens added: “We are asking the Government to take urgent action. Our ‘Keep Sulky Horse Activity Off Irish Public Roads’ petition has attracted more than 8,000 signatures to date and we expect the total number to exceed 10,000, indicating strong support among the public for a legal ban.
“We urge people to add their signature to it now.”
You can view or sign the NSPCA’s ‘Keep Sulky Horse Activity Off Irish Public Roads’ petition on Uplift.ie here.