6 August 2008
Minister for Food & Horticulture and local T.D., Trevor Sargent has welcomed a recent statement by Fingal County Council regarding the control of horses on beaches. This follows representations made by the Minister on behalf of Donabate residents concerned at the health implications of faeces contamination on their local beach.
The council have also reiterated that it is an offence to have a horse or pony on Fingal beaches between 11 am and 8 pm during June, July and August. It is permitted during the rest of the year at these times except at weekends and Public Holidays. It is necessary that the person or persons in charge of the animal ensure the following:
- It is under adequate control.
- Not causing annoyance to any person using the beach or disturbing any animals.
- Removal of faeces and depositing it in a litterbin.
- Horses are prohibited in S.A.C. and S.P.A.’s except where bridle paths are provided.
- Every person bringing a horse or pony is liable for any damage or injury caused by it.
Any contravention of these byelaws shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding €1,250. (The above does not apply to horses kept by An Garda Síochána while on duty).
Fingal County Council has ensured that Environment staff will visit the beach on a more frequent basis during the summer months to monitor the enforcement of these byelaws.
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