asked the Minister for Justice whether he is aware of the fact that the number of horses straying around the city of Dublin is increasing; and whether he proposes offering any increased protection to the citizens.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Straying Horses.
43.
The problem of wandering horses is a serious one and the gardaí are doing all they can to deal with it. Five hundred and ten horses were impounded in the Dublin area in 1970 and there were 466 prosecutions.
Would the Minister not agree that the penalties imposed at present are not adequate to deal with what the Minister says is a serious position in the city of Dublin?
As I understand the position under section 98 of the Road Traffic Act, 1961, which I think would be the appropriate section, the maximum fine is £50. Of course, if that figure were imposed or even figures approaching it, it would probably help to solve the problem.
You would have a lot of horses left on your hands.