Animal cruelty has been a growing concern in Cork County, with a number of distressing incidents in recent weeks sparking a call for greater action to safeguard the well-being of animals. • Recent Incidents:
‣ A cat was killed by two greyhound dogs in a garden in Mahon, Cork city. ‣ A cat was torn apart in its own garden by two greyhounds who gained access. ‣ A horse was found dead and dragged into bushes in Glanmire.
Call for a 24-Hour Animal Welfare Hotline
Cork County Councillor Audrey Buckley (FF) has called for the establishment of a 24-hour animal welfare hotline to address the growing concerns around animal cruelty in the county. “Many animal welfare organisations in Cork operate with very little funding or government support,” she said. “They rely heavily on donations and volunteers which means they are often overwhelmed, especially during times like the kitten season that we’re coming into.”
Increased Inspections and Public Awareness Campaigns
In her motion, Cllr Buckley also called for:
‣ More regular inspections of animal breeding facilities to ensure humane treatment of animals. ‣ A public awareness campaign to inform the public about responsible pet ownership, the importance of reporting animal cruelty, and the legal repercussions of neglect and abuse. ‣ The establishment of a widespread neutering program to help manage stray dog populations in Cork.
Responsibility and Oversight
Cork County Council Divisional Manager Michael Lynch responded to Cllr Buckley’s motion, pointing out that the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has primary policy responsibility for animal welfare in Ireland.
“Cork County Council’s functional responsibilities in this area relate to dog control, including dog licencing, stray dogs, dangerous breeds, etc., as well as the control of stray horses,” said Mr. Lynch.
However, Cllr Buckley countered that Cork County Council retains a local duty of care to its constituents to ensure that all animals are treated humanely within its jurisdictions.
“Regardless of the statutory division of duties between the council, DAFM, and other agencies, I believe that Cork County Council retains a local duty of care to its constituents to ensure that all animals are treated humanely within its jurisdictions,”
Addressing Animal Welfare Concerns
The recent incidents in Cork highlight the need for a proactive approach to address animal welfare concerns. • Greyhound Breeding and Ownership
‣ Greyhound breeding and ownership can be problematic, with many dogs being kept in unsuitable conditions and neglected. ‣ A widespread neutering program could help reduce the number of stray dogs and prevent further animal cruelty. • Stray Dog Management
‣ The current stray dog management system in Cork is inadequate, leading to further animal cruelty and neglect. ‣ A comprehensive stray dog management program, including neutering and population control measures, is necessary to address this issue.
Supporting Animal Welfare Organisations
Animal welfare organisations in Cork, such as the Cat Action Trust, often operate with limited resources and rely on donations and volunteers. • Funding and Government Support
‣ Many animal welfare organisations in Cork operate with very little funding or government support, relying on donations and volunteers. ‣ Increased government support and funding could help these organisations to better address animal welfare concerns and prevent further animal cruelty.
Conclusion
The recent incidents in Cork highlight the need for a proactive approach to address animal welfare concerns. While the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has primary policy responsibility for animal welfare in Ireland, Cork County Council retains a local duty of care to its constituents to ensure that all animals are treated humanely within its jurisdictions. Cllr Buckley’s motion serves as a call to action, highlighting the need for increased inspections, public awareness campaigns, and government support to address animal welfare concerns in Cork. By working together, we can ensure that all animals in Cork receive the care and protection they deserve.
| Animal Cruelty Hotline | 24-hour hotline to report animal welfare concerns |
| Inspections and Awareness Campaigns | Regular inspections of animal breeding facilities and public awareness campaigns on responsible pet ownership and animal welfare |
| Neutering Program | Comprehensive stray dog management program, including neutering and population control measures |
By working together, we can make a difference in the lives of animals in Cork and create a safer and more compassionate community for all.
Supporting animal welfare organisations and advocating for policy changes can help to prevent animal cruelty and promote a culture of kindness and respect towards animals.
‣
The intentional infliction of physical or emotional harm on an animal. ‣
The practice of caring for a pet in a way that ensures its physical and emotional well-being. ‣
The process of managing stray dogs, including neutering, population control, and other measures to prevent further animal cruelty.
