Launch of Professor Paddy Wall’s Report on Equine Identification, Registration, and Traceability in Ireland
- Published on: 20 March 2025
- Last updated on: 21 March 2025
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, today welcomed the publication of Professor Paddy Wall’s report on Ireland’s equine traceability system.
Professor Wall, who is a veterinarian, a medical doctor, knowledgeable in the equine sector and a food safety expert, was commissioned by the department to carry out a root and branch review of our equine traceability system. This followed the broadcast of an RTÉ Investigates documentary last June highlighting issues with equine traceability.
Commenting on the report, Minister Martin Heydon, said:
“Professor Wall has presented an excellent report calling for impactful reform of our equine identification system. I look forward to acting on these proposals so that we can ensure the horrific scenes broadcast in last June’s documentary can never happen again.”
The report proposes a series of recommendations to strengthen equine identification, traceability and welfare which are centred on achieving four key objectives:
- ensuring the highest level of protection for horses at end of life
- ensuring owner accountability through better traceability
- stricter enforcement of the law on equine identification
- making best use of science and technology to deliver better traceability and food safety
The Minister also published an action plan today outlining how the department will implement the proposed reforms, adding:
“I am committed to ensuring that the delivery of the vision set out in this report is rooted in transparency and accountability. My department is publishing this action plan to set out timelines and the specifics on how we will implement the recommendations of Professor Wall’s report.”
The Minister concluded by highlighting the importance of stakeholder engagement, commenting:
“Professor Wall’s review highlights the broad range of stakeholders involved across our equine sector; from owners and breeders to vets and regulators. I am committed to engaging with everyone in delivering better for our equine population. I look forward to working with the Equine Stakeholder Group, which includes representatives from across the sector, to deliver this action plan. Implementing a new traceability system fit for a sector committed to high welfare standards and a bright future will be dependent on the willingness of everyone connected to horses engaging with this plan and accepting their responsibilities to ensure their horses are traceable and safe. I am urging everyone to do your part.”
Notes
Attached documents:
1. Professor Wall Report
2. Action plan for Wall Report: The implementation of reforms to strengthen equine identification, traceability and welfare
