Sir, - I refer to Roddy O'Sullivan's report on the case involving the seizure by a Local Authority under the Control of Horses Act of 13 horses, the reported property of a traveller which is now the subject of a High Court action.
While the case itself is sub judice, I would like to make a brief general observation on the Act. It was, firstly, absolutely necessary legislation and, secondly, was widely seen as a serious attempt to address the then escalating and continuing problems presented to residents by horses, including strays, which have included death, serious injury, damage to property and the riding of horses and ponies in densely populated areas where substantial traffic was present.
Since its introduction, a number of substantially funded projects designed to cater for the needs of horse-owners have been commenced in appropriate locations and will continue and increase. An enormous improvement has taken place, due in no small way to the commitment and dedication shown by Local Authority officials in enforcing the Act.
My own strong view is that the bottom line has always been the same. By definition a horse is not, never was, and never will be a domestic animal unless the location or locations associated with its keep and care allow it to be treated as such. - Yours, etc.,
Cllr Tony Taaffe, City Hall, Dublin 2.