Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue has said his department is already investigating the supply of horses for slaughter, after shocking footage of abuse came to light in an RTÉ Investigates programme last night.
Horses: Making a Killing revealed distressing treatment of horses sent for slaughter at a licensed abattoir in Straffan, Co. Kildare.
Viewers were shocked to see the hidden camera footage of routine abuse of dying horses, including being whipped, proded with a pitchfork and physically dragged.
The research focused in particular on a lairage shed where official Department of Agriculture inspectors do not have a remit to regulate or inspect.
The company in question said any allegation of an equine being mistreated “will be fully investigated by the Company”.
Speaking after the programme aired, Donegal Minister Charlie McConalogue said: “I am taking this matter extremely seriously.
“My Department has already commenced an investigation in recent weeks involving the supply of equines for slaughter, with aspects of the ongoing investigation related to some of the broadcast activities. Any new allegations or evidence of malpractice or allegations of illegal activity in the equine industry that this programme has brought to light will be thoroughly investigated by my Department.”
The Department said that improving equine traceability has been and continues to be a priority, as it is essential to ensuring equine welfare.
