Stricter ID needed to protect horse sector

STRICTER enforcement and inspection of passports and identification for horses going to shows, sales, race meetings and such events has been announced by Agriculture and Food Minister Mary Coughlan. Horses found without passports will be sent home.

At the Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show, the minister said measures to protect the horse industry from diseases such as Equine Infectious Anaemia (EIA) are to be stepped up. Her department had previously relied on publicity campaigns to ensure compliance with regulations, but has now concluded that stricter enforcement measures are required.

She said department inspectors have been given enhanced powers to enforce EU regulations. Management at marts, sales yards and other premises where horses are assembled will also be required to ensure that horses entering their premises have valid passports. Department officials will carry out random inspections to ensure compliance.