A more fractious than usual environment is expected in Dáil Éireann today when People Before Profit-Solidarity Deputy Ruth Coppinger seeks support for her bill to ban fox hunting under the Animal Health and Welfare Act (2013).
If passed, it would make fox hunting an illegal and unlawful activity in Ireland that would also extend to the snaring and trapping of foxes.
Deputy Coppinger described fox hunting as inhumane and archaic – a view strongly opposed by hunt clubs and advocates for rural pursuits.
She called on the Taoiseach and party leaders to allow a free vote, citing a recent poll where 77 per cent, nationally, support a ban (74 per cent in rural areas).
We were joined on The Agenda this morning by animal welfare advocate Martina Kenny from My Lovely Horse Rescue, who told us about why she wants to see fox hunting banned.
We were also joined by Independent TD Danny Healy-Rae who, on the opposite end of the scale, said that he wants to see “common sense prevail” and for the bill to be opposed today.