Action needed to address problem of abandoned horses, MEP warns

Urgent action is needed to address the growing problem of abandoned horses and ponies throughout the country, said MEP Mairead McGuinness.

The Fine Gael MEP said she has met with farmers in the north-west who say the costs involved in complying with the registration and chipping regulation of horses far exceed the value of the animals.

The farmers says this cost is an impediment to dealing with the serious problem on the ground. Only horses that are micro-chipped can be slaughtered to enter the food chain.