Proposed horse protection measures in Kilkenny 'not targeting a community'

Cllr Andrew McGuinness has vowed that proposed new horse protection by-laws are not a deliberate attack on minority groups where the use and care of horses is still prevalent. 

Kilkenny County Council has confirmed that it intends to go to public consultation to amend the current Control of Horse by-laws, following the emergence of disturbing videos of horses struggling to stay afloat in the River Nore.

Over the past decade, a number of alterations have been made to the by-laws. In 2015, sulky racing was banned on public roads and subsequently in 2021, horse-exclusion zones were introduced in parts of Kilkenny City.

It is now proposed the existing by-laws be extended to Dean Street, St Francis Bridge and the Old Mart Road to close off access points to the river.

"It’s cruel to the animals and it’s horrible to see in broad daylight in front of everyone," Outgoing Mayor Andrew McGuinness said. 

"I’m not targeting a community, I’m targeting cruelty to animals," he added.

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"It’s a very positive development and I think it highlights the fact that the gardaí and us as elected members are working together to deal with a negative issue in a very productive way."

Cllr Sean Ó hArgain argued there was an ‘onus’ to come up with viable alternatives for the communities impacted with greater consultation necessary.

Cllr Eugene McGuinness claimed the updated plans are a 'step forward’ but 'it must be enforced', describing the ongoing activity as 'not acceptable'.

Meanwhile, Cllr David Fitzgerald remarked he was ‘horrified to see animals abused in any format’ and called for further measures to be introduced.

Draft by-laws will be put on public display where there will be a four week public consultation period. It’s hoped the new by-laws will be in place by next year.

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