MLHR response to DAFM 2021 to 2025​ NEW Animal Welfare Strategy

"The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine have released their new Animal Welfare Strategy. We are very disappointed at the continued lack of understanding as to the true situation of animal welfare in this country especially in the area of equine welfare. Until the government admits that our animal welfare record is nothing to stand over and that it needs major reforming then the necessary changes will not take place. Please take time to read our response to this strategy and share the link. Animal welfare matters"

MLHR Response to the Department of Agriculture's new Animal Welfare Strategy

Any opportunity to discuss and highlight the state of animal welfare in this country and to work towards a greater understanding of the animals we share this island with, their needs and our responsibilities towards them, is a positive thing and we welcome all initiatives which are aimed at improving present standards.
It is reassuring to read of the Minister’s ‘clear commitment to animal welfare’ and his belief that ‘together we can ensure that as a society, we afford our companion, farmed and wild animals, the respect, care and high welfare standards they deserve.’

​​​However, we do believe that the full extent of the present animal welfare situation is not truly understood and appreciated by the government and authorities.  We are concerned that without a clear understanding of the failings of our present system we cannot make the changes necessary to move forward towards achieving the vision of this strategy which is for Ireland to become ‘increasingly recognised as a country that actively promotes and safeguards the welfare of all animals,’ Knowledge and evidence based information are stated as two of the five key strategic principles of this strategy and it is essential that the many groups who have been working on the ground in the area of animal welfare are consulted throughout this process. No matter how small the groups may be they have invaluable insight and understanding of the present situation.

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