Question to ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport:
To ask his views on whether in the interests of safety of road users, it is necessary to implement new regulations governing the use of horses and sulkies on public roads; and if he will make a statement on the matter. – Jerry Buttimer.
For WRITTEN answer on Tuesday, 19th February, 2013.
Ref No:
8220/13
REPLY
Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Leo Varadkar):
While the Gardaí have recently been successful in bringing prosecutions for the racing of sulkies on public roads, I believe that the law in this an area requires further examination.
Under current Road Traffic legislation, I have the power, as Minister, to make general regulations for the control of traffic, including the parking of vehicles in public places. I have asked my Department, in consultation with the Gardaí, to review the current legislation governing the use of animals on public roads, to determine if tighter controls are necessary.