A horsehold charge?

Sir, – I strongly object to the latest Government decree from the Minister of Agriculture, that all horse and pony owners should…

Sir, – I strongly object to the latest Government decree from the Minister of Agriculture, that all horse and pony owners should register the premises where the animals are kept.

Why do the authorities insist on keeping tabs on every aspect of our lives? This is an unwanted, unnecessary intrusion into the life of every child who owns a pony, every pet-donkey owner, as well as racehorse and stud owners who are well used to red tape.

If this order is to have any teeth it will surely cost the taxpayer a minimum of one civil servant per county, just when we are supposed to be reducing costs.

I have already paid my household charge, I have registered my farmyard ducks, I don’t smoke in pubs. Will the Minister be demanding details of the goldfish next. – Yours, etc,

KIERAN GUINNESS,

Moyvore,

Co Westmeath.