Local and European Elections 2014: Candidates and Animal Issues

Before you vote in the upcoming local and European elections, please ask candidates where they stand on fox hunting, hare coursing and other animal cruelty issues. Please choose compassionate candidates on Friday 23 May.

Views of 2014 Local Election Candidates

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Help us expand this list. Question candidates about where they stand and let us know their responses.

Carlow County Council

Wayne Fennell (Fine Gael, Carlow County Council)
"Cllr Wayne Fennell, who told of how a number of his hens had been killed by dogs, asked when it is alright for a farmer to a shoot a dog on his land. 'A farmer is entitled to shoot a dog on his property if he feels that it is worrying his livestock,' added [dog warden supervisor] Aidan Corcoran. 'Chickens, however, don't fall in to the category of livestock.'" from an article in Carlow People newspaper, 22 April 2013.

Saoire O'Brien (Direct Democracy Ireland candidate, Carlow County Council)
"Yes, personally I would be [in favour of a ban on hare coursing and foxhunting]...I'm a vegetarian for about 17 years now, that should say it all :)" from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cavan County Council

Cllr Damien Brady (Sinn Fein, Cavan County Council)
"Fine Gael Cllr Peter McVitty and Sinn Fein Cllr Damien Brady from Cavan voiced their support for the [pro-blood sports Rise] campaign." (Leitrim Observer, May 24, 2010).

Cllr Michael (Mickey) Lee (Independent, Cavan County Council - Belturbert)
In 2010, Michael Lee was among four Belturbet Town Councillors thanked by ICABS for not supporting a pro-staghunting motion. According to a report in the Anglo Celt newspaper, Michael Lee was "against the motion".

Seamus Fitzpatrick (Independent, Cavan County Council - Belturbert)
In 2010, Seamus Fitzpatrick was criticised by ICABS for presenting a pro-staghunting motion at a meeting of Belturbet Town Council. The Anglo Celt newspaper reported that Seamus Fitzpatrick declared a life-long involvement in hunting - "Seamus Fitzpatrick said that generations of his family had been hunting, fishing and shooting and in fact he was hunting with beagles and harriers from the tender age of ten."

Cllr Peter McVitty (Fine Gael, Cavan County Council)
"Fine Gael Cllr Peter McVitty and Sinn Fein Cllr Damien Brady from Cavan voiced their support for the [pro-blood sports Rise] campaign." (Leitrim Observer, May 24, 2010).

Cllr Shane P O'Reilly (Fianna Fail, Cavan County Council - Ballyjamesduff)
"I totally am against both [foxhunting and hare coursing]. I love horse and greyhound racing. I was at a coursing meet with a friend of mine a few years ago, it disturbed me...it's shocking the terrible treatment of animals in this country." from a message to a local voter, May 2014.

Clare County Council

George Atijohn (Independent candidate, Clare County Council - Ennis)
"I believe in the well-being of animals. I will support laws that will ban cruel hare coursing and fox hunting." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr James Breen (Independent, Clare County Council)
"As a farmer, I allow people to hunt and shoot on my land." (Speaking as a member of the Joint Committee on the Constitution, during a meeting on 22 July 2003.

In 2005, foxes and mink were doomed to lives of misery on fur farms following the rejection by Dail Eireann of the Fur Farming (Prohibition) Bill 2004. The bill was defeated by 67 votes to 50. James Breen was among the TDs who shamefully voted AGAINST the bill.

Dermot Hayes (Labour Party candidate, Clare County Council)
"There is no room for animal cruelty in a civilised society. As a dog owner I am aware of the issues that crop up from time to time on local radio. You have my assurance that I will make great efforts to strenghten the laws." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Tony McMahon (Labour Party candidate, Clare County Council)
"My Priorities...Animal Welfare - Increased penalties for the cruelty and abuse of animals. Stopping any practice that inflicts pain or stress on animals in sport or entertainment activities." from Tony McMahon's website, May 2014.

Gerben Uunk (Green Party candidate, Clare County Council - Ennis)
"Ban foxhunting in Clare and beyond. Stop the animal cruelty. A vote for me is a vote against bloodsports." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Damon Wise (Fis Nua candidate, Clare County Council)
"When I was at college in Brighton I was a member of Brighton Animal Rights Campaign. I once left in the early hours of the morning and took a train to Lewis and walked up the hill to go to a farm where a fox hunt was to take place. Myself and Jason were stopped and searched when we went up the main road, and sent back; our colleagues got through and ran a false trail to confuse the hunting dogs. We have fundraised for a number of charities involving animals such as Greenpeace, WWF, ISPCA and Dogs Trust, and have fundraised for a local animal shelter called Second Chances. As a green, social justice party we believe that our duty of care as caretakers of this planet includes animals as well as humans." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Cork City Council

Cllr Mick Barry (Socialist Party/Anti Austerity Alliance, Cork City Council)
"I am opposed to blood 'sports' and 'sports' that involve cruelty to animals. I am also opposed to wild animal circuses and favour a Council ban on them. I am equally opposed to foxhunting and hare coursing." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Dan Boyle (Green Party Candidate, Cork City Council)
"My views on blood sports are quite simple. I believe that the use of animals against animals for the purposes of 'sport', with the intent to kill or maim, is morally wrong and should be suitably legislated against."

Sue-Ellen Carroll (Fine Gael Candidate, Cork City Council)
"I am against any form of animal cruelty." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Derek Cregan (Fine Gael Candidate, Cork City Council)
"I'm not a supporter of any type of blood sport." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Mick Finn (Independent, Cork City Council)
"I personally don't like fox hunting or coursing, but I know that hunting has been around for centuries in Ireland. Many abhor but many also participate in these events." March 2014.

Cllr Ger Gibbons (Labour Party, Cork City Council)
"I am completely against it [foxhunting and hare coursing]." from a reply to an ICABS email, 11 March 2014.

Brian Houlihan (Independent candidate / People's Candidate, Cork City Council)
"Yes I would be in favour of bans [on hare coursing and foxhunting]. Animal welfare is an issue facing many councils sadly." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Diarmaid O Cadhla (People's Candidate, Cork City Council)
"My view [on bloodsports] doesn't matter. I'm standing in [the 2014 election] to represent my community, as required by Bunreacht, the people decide policy." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014. In response, ICABS stated "Your view certainly does matter to the electorate deciding who to vote for."

Cllr Mary Shields (Fianna Fail, Cork City Council)
"I am totally against any type of cruelty to animals. It abhors me to think anyone would cause pain or harm to an animal."

Cork County Council

Shirley Griffin (People's Candidate, Cork County Council)
"[Me and my husband] both love and respect animals...The principle of the People's Candidates is that we don't use our position to further our own cause. If we are elected we will be serving the people. If a motion came up in the council to ban hare coursing or foxhunting, I would hold a meeting and the people of the Ballincollig/Carriagaline area would be invited to vote on it, and I would then vote on what the majority wanted. This, in our opinion, is true democracy. No vested interest, just the will of the majority." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Kieran McCarthy (Sinn Fein, Cork County Council - Cobh)
"I'm against bloodsports and I'm a supporter of well known Cobh animal rights group, ARK." from a text message to ICABS, April 2014.

Norma Thomson (Labour Party candidate, Cork County Council)
"Personally speaking I’ve never been able to understand the logic behind random acts of cruelty against animals that seem to involve inflicting pain for no other reason than the satisfaction of seeing a creature suffer terribly. As I am sure you are already aware, Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney recently introduced new legislation on animal welfare. This is the most expansive and progressive piece of animal welfare legislation in Ireland for over 100 years. The Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 includes provision for increased powers for authorised officers to investigate complaints of animal cruelty, and stricter penalties on convictions." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Grzegorz Zalewski (People’s Candidate, Cork County Council)
"Personally, I am a strong opponent of any type of hunting wild animals. To this day I can not understand how people can take pleasure in chasing the living creatures that were scared out of natural habitats, only to have been killed by a group of "adult, responsible people." I realise that there are situations when certain species of animals have become too numerous in the area, and therefore are not able to feed themselves, and in such situations it may be necessary to reduce the numbers. However, this should be done under the strict control of people who know how to do it. In Poland, the rangers deal with this. Violence against domesticated animals (dogs, cats, horses) should be completely prohibited by law, and the punishment for people who committed it - very strict." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Donegal County Council

Christy Galligan (Labour Party candidate, Donegal County Council)
"I absolutely abhor all forms of animal cruelty. I have investigated and prosecuted cases of animal cruelty [as a member of An Garda Siochana]." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

South Dublin County Council

Cllr Chris Bond (Labour Party, South Dublin County Council)
"I supported a motion calling on the ban on circuses with live animals in south Dublin county." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Breeda Bonner (Labour Party, South Dublin County Council)
"I am totally opposed to all forms of cruelty to animals and to Fox hunting, hare coursing and any blood sports." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Aideen Carberry (Labour Party candidate, South Dublin County Council - Rathfarnham)
"Obviously against animal cruelty and blood sports. My cat will back me up on this, I love animals. :)" from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Anne-Marie Dermody (Fine Gael, South Dublin County)
"I don't get the hunting think and how it could be someone's pleasure!" from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Mick Duff (Labour Party, South Dublin County Council)
In 2010, Cllr Duff proposed a motion calling for a ban on the import and sale of fur which was successfully passed by South Dublin County Council. He also supported a motion to ban circuses with wild animals from public lands in South County Dublin and monitors dog pounds in the county.

Martina Genockey (Labour Party candidate, South Dublin County Council - Tallaght South)
"Absolutely [in favour of a ban on cruel hare coursing and foxhunting]. Very strong supporter of animal rights. I'm actually a vegetarian." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Trevor Gilligan (Fianna Fail, South Dublin County Council)
"Tackling animal cruelty has been a priority for me since elected in Clondalkin in 2004. We need to look at more ways to catch offenders who harm animals, be that for money, for fun or otherwise. Only recently a small innocent dog was gravely harmed when dogs were let loose in a park. There must be a cruelty to animals register so that the public can know about people who cause cruelty to animals. I have worked with many groups in Clondalkin and outside towards tackling animal cruelty, I have put down many motions on this issue at council level and will continue to do so if re-elected in Clondalkin...I would support a ban on foxhunting and hare coursing." from correspondence to ICABS, April 2014.

Paul Gogarty (Independent candidate, South Dublin County Council)
Paul Gogarty is a former Green Party TD.

"Hare coursing involves cruelty to both hares and dogs and this has to stop," he stated. "I am not anti-greyhound racing, but an industry that knowingly engages in animal cruelty for profit is not one that should be allowed operate in such a fashion." During a Dail debate on the Greyhound Industry (Doping Regulation) Bill 2006, 8th June 2006.

"If asked, the majority of people in Ireland wish to have stag hunting banned. The majority of people, including those living in rural areas, also wish to have hare coursing banned...the maths and the clout do not add up for the Green Party to ban hare coursing although we have expressed our desire to get rid of hare coursing."

Cllr Pamela Kearns (Labour Party, South Dublin County Council - Templeogue Terenure)
"I am against any cruelty to animals." from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Gino Kenny (People Before Profit Alliance, South Dublin County Council)
"I'm against any type of blood Sport which wantonly hurts any animal. I hope one day soon that blood sports in Britain and Ireland are a relic of the past." - www.ginokenny.com. For more information, read our report

Cllr Dermot Looney (Independent, South Dublin County Council)
"Proud to have proposed the banning of circuses with wild animals from Council land & called for a national ban at the Council meeting." Cllr Looney comment on Twitter, 10th March 2014. Dermot Looney is the current Mayor of South Dublin County Council and will be seeking re-election in the new Templeogue-Terenure ward in May 2014.

"I am opposed both to foxhunting and coursing." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Guss O'Connell (Independent, South Dublin County Council)
"I fully support [animal welfare] and use any opportunity to promote it." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Charlie O'Connor (Fianna Fail Candidate, South Dublin County Council)
"I took careful note of your concerns regarding hare coursing and please be assured of my interest in the matter. I am pursuing this issue on your behalf and I will do all I can to help." Charlie O'Connor TD in a message to ICABS in July 2004.

In 2010, Charlie O'Connor TD voted in favour of the ban on carted deer hunting.

In 2005, foxes and mink were doomed to lives of misery on fur farms following the rejection by Dail Eireann of the Fur Farming (Prohibition) Bill 2004. The bill was defeated by 67 votes to 50. Charlie O'Connor was among the TDs who shamefully voted AGAINST the bill.

Cllr Eamonn Tuffy (Labour, South Dublin County Council)
Cllr Tuffy signed an anti-bloodsports petition in November 2004.

Dublin City Council

Chris Andrews (Sinn Fein Candidate, Dublin City Council / Pembroke-South Dock)
In 2010, Chris Andrews TD voted in favour of the ban on carted deer hunting.

Cllr Gerry Ashe (Labour Party, Dublin City Council)
"You have my absolute and unreserved support." (from an email to ICABS, March 2012).

Cllr Christy Burke (Independent, Dublin City Council)
"I am against any form of animal cruelty." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Paul Clarke (Independent candidate, Dublin City Council - Beaumont-Donaghmede)
"It is really not humane to make animals fight each other as they lack the sensibilities which humans have." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Donna Cooney (Green Party Candidate, Dublin City Council / Clontarf)
"I am committed (as are my party) to animal welfare. I am a vegetarian all my life. I help animals in need, whenever I can. I would be totally against blood sports or any activity that hurts animals. Although there is no hunting in Dublin city, I will as a representative if elected, always consider the welfare of animals in any council policy decision and lobby against hunting, fur, animal testing." March 2014.

Ciaran Cuffe (Green Party Candidate, Dublin City Council)
"I am against all forms of blood sports."

Cllr Pat Dunne (United Left - People Before Profit Alliance, Dublin City Council)
"I am in favour of an end to foxhunting, hare coursing and other forms of cruelty." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Mary Freehill (Labour Party, Dublin City Council)
"I'm very much in favour of a ban on foxhunting and hare coursing. Hare coursing in particular is extremely cruel." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

David Gaughran (People Before Profit candidate, Dublin City Council - Cabra/Finglas)
"Absolutely. I support a ban on foxhunting and hare coursing." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Sean Haughey (Fianna Fail Candidate, Dublin City Council / Clontarf)
In 2010, Sean Haughey TD voted in favour of the ban on carted stag hunting.

In 2005, foxes and mink were doomed to lives of misery on fur farms following the rejection by Dail Eireann of the Fur Farming (Prohibition) Bill 2004. The bill was defeated by 67 votes to 50. Sean Haughey was among the TDs who shamefully voted AGAINST the bill.

In June 2005, Sean Haughey, TD asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food "her views on the horrific slaughter of 4,300 pigs on a farm in Waterford in 2002 which was presided over by officials from her Department".

Cllr Jane Horgan-Jones (Labour Party, Dublin City Council)
"Yes [I am in favour of a ban on foxhunting and hare coursing]." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Vincent Jackson (Independent, Dublin City Council)
"I am, and have always been, against bloodsports." from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Dermot Lacey (Labour Party, Dublin City Council)
"As a dog owner and animal lover generally I would be, and have been, supportive of typical animal rights issues over the years." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Samantha Long (Fine Gael candidate, Dublin City Council - Rathgar-Rathmines)
"I am not personally in favour of any bloodsports. When this intense campaign period is over I will read more on your campaign." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Mel MacGiobuin (Independent, Dublin City Council)
"I fully support campaigns against animal cruelty and I have frequently supported ICABS. I am a long term supporter and activist with the late Tony Gregory and Maureen O'Sullivan TD. I stand against animal cruelty in rural and also in urban settings - barbaric so-called 'recreational' activities, abhorrent industrial contexts and inhumane agricultural practices. Please accept my support for the work of organisations like yours focused on highlighting animal cruelty here in Ireland and elsewhere." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Padraig McLoughlin (Labour, Dublin City Council)
"I am opposed to fox hunting and coursing and am generally not in favour of hunting" from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Declan Meenagh (Labour Party Candidate, Dublin City Council)
"For the record, I am opposed to fox hunting." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Criona Ni Dhalaigh (Sinn Fein, Dublin City Council)
"I am against any form of animal cruelty and abhor foxhunting and hare coursing." from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Darryl O'Callaghan (Labour Party candidate, Dublin City Council - North Inner City)
"I agree any kind of cruelty to animals is barbaric and unwanted. #Banitall" from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Kim O'Donnell (People Before Profit candidate, Dublin City Council - Rathgar-Rathmines)
"Absolutely [in favour of a ban on cruel hare coursing and foxhunting]" from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

John O'Donovan (Independent candidate, Dublin City Council / Crumlin–Kimmage)
"I am totally against any and all forms of cruelty towards animals." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Damian O'Farrell (Independent, Dublin City Council / Clontarf)
"I am absolutely against the killing of animals for sport. Furthermore I don't agree with animals being held in circuses and have spoken out regarding this matter to Dublin City Council." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Michael O'Sullivan (Labour, Dublin City Council)
"Having reviewed the campaigns listed on your website I am happy to say I am in support of them all." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Cieran Perry (Independent, Dublin City Council)
"I believe that the netting and coursing of wild hares is a cruel and barbaric practice that has no place in the Ireland of today. Despite the introduction of muzzling, which coursing enthusiasts reassured the public would remove the "kill" element of this so-called sport, it is clear that the coursing fraternity cannot be trusted to police their own events. It is surely now time to consign this cruel and shameful practice to the dustbin of history once and for all". From a statement issued on 03 February, 2011. Read More...

In October 2010, Cieran Perry succeeded in getting a motion passed in Dublin City Council to ban the import and sale of real fur, in the jurisdiction of Dublin City.

Cllr John Redmond (Labour Party, Dublin City Council - Cabra-Finglas)
"I'm against bloodsports & 100% against animal cruelty." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Tom Rooney (Direct Democracy Ireland candidate, Dublin City Council - Beaumont-Donaghmede)
"I am against animal cruelty and would be against foxhunting and hare coursing if it is solely for sport." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council

Cllr Victor Boyhan (Independent, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council)
In 2010, Cllr Victor Boyhan expressed support for a ban on the Ward Union. "I am absolutely against this horrific activity," he stated, branding the deerhunters a "barbaric lot".

Anne Colgan (Independent candidate, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council - Dundrum)
"I'm opposed to animal cruelty and firmly against hare coursing and foxhunting." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Angela Collins Timlin (Labour Party candidate, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council/Blackrock)
"I'm not in favour of foxhunting, and particularly not of hare coursing. I am an animal lover and it breaks my heart to see the cruelty shown to horses that was in the news recently." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Nicola Curry (People Before Profit candidate, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council - Glencullen/Sandyford)
"I would love to see such cruel activities banned [foxhunting and hare coursing]. There is nothing of "sport" about them." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Maurice Dockrell (Fine Gael candidate, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council - Blackrock)
"I loathe animal cruelty, indeed any form of cruelty." from a tweet, 23rd April 2014

Cllr Melissa Halpin (People Before Profit Alliance, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council)
"As a socialist I completely abhor animal cruelty and all blood sports. In particular I am against the kind of intensive farming practices that see animals being imprisoned and force fed. Unfortunately, I believe that as long as we have a society that is driven by the profit motive, we will continue to see these practices and for that reason I think it is right to make this an election issue." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Richard Humphreys (Labour, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council)
"I am in favour of stronger legislation on animal cruelty, including prohibiting foxhunting and hare coursing." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Karl Gill (People Before Profit candidate, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council - Dun Laoghaire)
"I am against foxhunting and hare coursing." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Hugh Lewis (People Before Profit Alliance, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council)
"As a vegetarian, I believe that all forms of cruelty to animals is unacceptable."

Cllr Lettie McCarthy (Labour, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council)
"I have the greatest respect for animals and oppose all cruelty." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Michael Merrigan (Independent candidate, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Council)
"I am totally against blood sports." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Denis O Callaghan (Labour, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council)
"I am opposed to animal cruelty in the areas of fox-hunting and hare coursing." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Neale Richmond (Fine Gael, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council)
"No I'm not [in favour of a ban on hare coursing and foxhunting] but it needs to regulated and monitored." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014. In response, ICABS stated "Regulated and monitored animal cruelty is still animal cruelty. There is no place for animal cruelty in modern Ireland."

Cllr Carrie Smyth (Labour, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council)
"I do not like to see cruelty to animals." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Fingal County Council

Louise Bayliss (People Before Profit candidate, Fingal County Council - Mulhuddart)
"Yes [in favour of a ban on hare coursing and foxhunting]. When I lived in Man o War, we'd 'no shooting' sign. My Dad said 'fowl must read' [because] in hunt season, they lived on our field." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Eugene Coppinger (Socialist Party/Anti Austerity Alliance, Fingal County Council/Swords)
"I am totally opposed to all forms of animal abuse, including hare coursing and fox hunting. The Socialist Party, of which I am a member, have a very good record on this. A number of years ago, when Clare Daly was a member of our party, she put down a motion in Fingal County Council, calling for a ban on circuses having live animals in their show. The motion was carried. It now means that no circus which uses animals, will be allowed on any public area in Fingal." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Ruth Coppinger (Socialist Party/Anti Austerity Alliance, Fingal County Council/Mulhuddart)
"I don't support [foxhunting or hare coursing]." from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Judy Dunne (Labour Party, Fingal County Council)
"I am against all cruelty to animals and I am in favour of a ban on foxhunting and hare coursing." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

David Healy (Green Party Candidate, Fingal County Council - Howth/Malahide)
"I am opposed to all blood sports including fox hunting and coursing and in favour of a ban on them." March 2014.

Maria McGrail (Fine Gael candidate, Fingal County Council - Mulhuddart)
"Totally against [hare coursing and foxhunting]. Have zero tolerance for abuse towards defenseless, voiceless living beings that need protecting." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cian O'Callaghan (Independent, Fingal County Council)
"I am supportive of your organisation and campaign." (from an email to ICABS in March 2012)

Cllr Michael O'Donovan (Labour Party, Fingal County Council)
"I'm a dog owner and an animal lover, and it amazes me that people indulge in sports and activities which brutalise animals...I think children should never be exposed to animal cruelty. I wish you the best in your campaign." from an email to ICABS in April 2014.

Roderic O'Gorman (Green Party candidate, Fingal County Council)
"I have always strongly opposed blood sports, as I believe there is no moral justification for setting one animal against another for human enjoyment. If elected to Fingal County Council I will use all available powers of the local authority to oppose blood sports". Roderic O'Gorman, March 2014

In January 2012, Roderic O'Gorman, along with Green Party leader Eamon Ryan, were thanked for attending an anti-coursing protest outside the Department of Agriculture in Dublin.

Keith Redmond (Fine Gael candidate, Fingal County Council - Howth-Malahide)
"Yes [I am in favour of a ban on foxhunting and hare coursing]." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Duncan Smith (Labour Party candidate, Fingal County Council)
"I abhor the practice of hare coursing and foxhunting." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Memet Uludag (People Before Profit Alliance Candidate, Fingal County Council / Castleknock)
"I support your stand against animal cruelty and the campaign for banning of blood sports." From a tweet to ICABS, April 2014.

Galway City Council

Cllr Colette Connolly (Labour, Galway City Council)
"It is of course barbaric and unacceptable that people feel they have a right to kill animals in this way and dare to call it a sport - all with legislative sanction...If I should be successfully elected, I would be happy to campaign further on this issue in my capacity as councillor." (from an email to ICABS, April 2014).

Cllr Niall McNelis (Labour, Galway City Council)
"You have my support on this [a ban on carted deer hunting] and I will be bringing this up with my party leader." (from an email to ICABS, 8th June 2010)

Galway County Council

Cllr Michael Fahy (Independent, Galway County Council - Loughrea)
At a meeting of Galway County Council in April 2012, Michael Fahy described a master of the Galway Blazers foxhunt who had died as "an outstanding Irish personality of our time".

Cllr Sean O Tuairisg (Fianna Fail, Galway County Council)
"I am opposed to animal cruelty and in particular foxhunting and hare coursing." March 2014.

Cllr Kevin Ryan (Fine Gael, Galway County Council)
"I am against blood sports of all types. Nothing against shooting vermin, though, or humanely trapping and putting same to sleep." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Kerry County Council

Cllr John Brassil (Fianna Fail, Kerry County Council)
On August 28 2008, the Kerryman newspaper reported that Cllr Brassil was lobbying then Environment Minister John Gormley to issue a hare coursing licence "at the earliest opportunity". A claim by Cllr Brassil in the report that "animal welfare is of primary concern to all involved in hare coursing" was branded outrageous by ICABS.

At a Kerry County Council meeting on 28th November 2011, Cllr Brassil presented the motion: "That Kerry County Council would fill the potholes on the approach road to the coursing field in Addergown, Ballyduff prior to the weekend of the 18th November, 2011"

Brian Finucane (People Before Profit candidate, Kerry County Council - Listowel)
"I am against bloodsports and animal cruelty. We need to speak and stand for those who can't." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Michael Gleeson (Independent, Kerry County Council)
In 2007, Councillor Michael Gleeson was criticised by ICABS after he called for the urgent elimination of the mink species. Cllr Gleeson said that "it is imperative that an onslaught is commenced on the most unwelcome mink." Read More

Tom McEllistrim (Fianna Fail Candidate, Kerry County Council - Tralee)
In a statement issued in September 2007, Tom McEllistrim welcomed the licensing of hare coursing and described the blood sport as "thoroughly humane". Responding, ICABS stated: "Deputy McEllistrim clearly doesn't comprehend the meaning of the word humane." For more details, please see ICABS blasts "coursing is humane" claim

In 2005, foxes and mink were doomed to lives of misery on fur farms following the rejection by Dail Eireann of the Fur Farming (Prohibition) Bill 2004. The bill was defeated by 67 votes to 50. Tom McEllistrim was among the TDs who shamefully voted AGAINST the bill.

Cllr Gillian Wharton-Slattery (Labour Party, Kerry County Council - Tralee)
"I am totally and utterly against fox hunting and hare coursing. I am also vehemently against wild animals in circuses. I am a complete animal lover and actually have had great fun with animals on my canvas trail and have posted lots of pics on my Facebook page. I wish you the best of luck in your struggle because it is a huge struggle - keep up the great work." from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Kildare County Council

Anne Breen (Labour Party candidate, Kildare County Council)
"I am very much against foxhunting and hare coursing...and would fully suport you stance." from a message to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Kevin Byrne (Labour Party, Kildare County Council)
"I am completely against animal cruelty in any form." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Fergus Carpenter (Labour Party candidate, Kildare County Council - Naas)
"I am opposed to any form of cruelty to animals, including so-called ‘sports’. I support bans on all such ‘sports’." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Martin Grehan (People Before Profit candidate, Kildare County Council - Maynooth)
"Yes, absolutely, foxhunting and hare coursing are extremely cruel and should be banned." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Shane Griffin (Labour Party candidate, Kildare County Council / Celbridge)
"I oppose foxhunting and hare coursing." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Sean Power (Fianna Fail Candidate, Kildare County Council)
"The hunt has a long and distinguished record in Ireland and a proud tradition. Most villages have pictures of hunts going back over many years and there is something beautiful about watching a hunt in action. Man has always hunted. Today, that hunt takes on a different meaning but people appreciate that it has a proud historic record. This Bill has attracted much publicity. People who do not hunt or engage in rural activities have little understanding or appreciation of why others partake in the activity and the joy, fun and craic that people have on a hunt...The Ward Union Hunt Club has been operating for more than 150 years and is the only club with a stag hunt. It has approximately 200 active members. I know some of these people personally and I regard them as normal, natural people. In any group of 200 people one can select a few and try to tarnish them all with the same brush. The same could be said of the 166 Deputies. The members of the Ward Union Hunt Club are normal people who enjoy a particular activity. From my knowledge of them, they are animal lovers who take great pleasure in participating in a stag hunt...I regret the introduction of legislation to criminalise a long and proud tradition in Ireland." Speaking as a TD during the Wildlife (Amendment) Bill 2010, 24 June 2010. Despite expressing support for the Ward Union hunt, Deputy Power voted in favour of a ban on stag hunting.

"I was a greyhound owner in the past and my family was involved down through the years in the industry. I like a night at the dogs. In recent years, the issue of clerical abuse has received a great deal of publicity. However, as a former altar boy, my experience of the church was much different. I was an altar boy to a priest who loved both horse and greyhound racing and I had the pleasure of travelling around the country to attend horse and greyhound race meetings and even the odd coursing meeting. I learned a great deal and my experience with this priest was joyous and educational. I am grateful for the education I received about greyhounds and horses." Speaking as Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children during a Dail debate on the Greyhound Industry [Doping Regulation] Bill 2006, 8th June 2006.

Cllr Thomas Redmond (Sinn Fein Candidate, Kildare County Council)
Cllr Redmond posed next to mounted members of the Fisherstown Farmers Hunt at a November 2013 fundraising event. "Thanks to Cllr Tomas Redmond for showing great support for the event," the hunt stated on its Facebook page.

Cllr Darren Scully (Fine Gael, Kildare County Council)
"I am against all cruelty to animals, however what one person sees as cruel another sees as an acceptable part of life, many humans in this world are meat eaters and some would argue that it is cruel to kill cattle, deer, or rabbit to consume. I do not think it wrong or cruel to kill animals for consumption as long as it is done in a controlled manner monitored by the relevant state agency. I do think it is wrong to kill animals for sport, in this day and age we can still engage in sport without the need to take life intentionally. I am sure quite a few were not too pleased when the Romans did away with the gladiators." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Philip Slattery (Fine Gael candidate, Kildare County Council - Celbridge/Leixlip)
"I'm against any form of blood sport where animal cruelty happens." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Kilkenny County Council

Cllr Kathleen Funchion (Sinn Fein candidate, Kilkenny County Council)
"I think like most people, I deplore the abuse of animals and cruelty to animals. It is something that is quite a passionate issue for many of our members locally and I think of it as an issue which deserves more airtime in our national and local discourse. Sinn Fein has opposed all bloodsports in Ireland and some of our members even went as far as stopping a hunt in Westmeath several years ago. Their position filled me with great pride and I have always tried my best to remain consistent in that view. A big issue in Kilkenny in the mistreatment of horses on the roads by some members of the community. That situation is abhorrent and can not continue. Should I be elected to Kilkenny County Council, it would be a great disappointment to me if the issue of animal welfare locally was still as prominent an issue at the end of the council term. I have always considered it an idea to create a register of animal abusers to make it more difficult for offenders to continue to own animals. I know that would only be the start of tackling the wider problem." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Malcolm Noonan (Green Party, Kilkenny County Council)
In February 2013, Cllr Noonan joined calls for a ban on foxhunting, describing it as "barbaric". His statement came in the wake of an horrific attack on a dog by hunt hounds in a Coillte forest in Carlow which left the family pet fighting for its life with severe injuries.

Cllr Michael O'Brien (Labour Party, Kilkenny County Council)
"'It is a shameful fact that horses are discarded like sweet papers in the wind by their negligent owners in a country which benefits so much from Man’s best friend.' These words were uttered by Michael O’Brien, Kilkenny County Council representative on the Association of County and City Councils, following its special local government forum on the vexed issue of stray horses." from a statement on Cllr Michael O'Brien's website, February 2014.

Cllr Tommy Prendergast (Labour, Kilkenny County Council)
"I'm opposed to all kinds of cruelty to animals." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Laois County Council

Cllr Raymond Cribbin (Independent, Laois County Council)
"I am against cruelty - foxhunting, hare coursing, etc. R Cribbin." from a letter to ICABS, 2014.

Aidan Mullins (Sinn Fein candidate, Laois County Council)
"Personally I am against fox hunting and hare coursing." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Leitrim County Council

Cllr Gerard Dolan (Independent, Leitrim County Council)
At a June 2010 meeting of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Gerard Dolan voted in favour of a motion in support of the pro-bloodsports RISE campaign. The motion stated that Leitrim County Council "...shares the concerns [RISE] is highlighting, over legislation currently being proposed by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, John Gormley T.D. This Council calls on the Government to listen to the concerns being expressed by those who engage in hunting and other outdoor activities..."

Cllr Caillian Ellis (Fianna Fail, Leitrim County Council)
At a June 2010 meeting of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Caillian Ellis tabled the following motion in support of the pro-bloodsports RISE campaign: "I propose that Leitrim County Council support the "Rise Campaign" (Rural Ireland says enough) concerning the legislation being brought in to ban all field sports which would have a devastating effect on people's livelihood." According to the minutes of the meeting, Cllr Ellis "outlined that wildlife has to be culled to survive".

Cllr Gordon Hughes (Fine Gael, Leitrim County Council)
At a June 2010 meeting of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Gordon Hughes voted in favour of motion in support of the pro-bloodsports RISE campaign. The motion stated that Leitrim County Council "...shares the concerns [RISE] is highlighting, over legislation currently being proposed by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, John Gormley T.D. This Council calls on the Government to listen to the concerns being expressed by those who engage in hunting and other outdoor activities..."

Cllr Martin Kenny (Sinn Fein, Leitrim County Council)
At a June 2010 meeting of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Kenny presented a motion in support of pro-bloodsports group, RISE: "I propose that Leitrim County Council notes the increasing level of popular support being expressed for the RISE (Rural Ireland Says Enough) campaign and shares the concerns it is highlighting, over legislation currently being proposed by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, John Gormley TD. This Council calls on the Government to listen to the concerns being expressed by those who engage in hunting..." The minutes of the meeting detail that Councillor Kenny claimed he is totally against cruelty to animals but that he went on to express opposition to legislation "if activities such as pheasant shooting, activities of the South Leitrim Harriers etc are curtailed or prevented."

Cllr John McCartin (Fine Gael, Leitrim County Council)
"I am very concerned about animal welfare" - from an email to ICABS in 2010.

Cllr Sean McDermott (Fine Gael, Leitrim County Council)
At a June 2010 meeting of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Sean McDermott voted in favour of motion in support of the pro-bloodsports RISE campaign. The motion stated that Leitrim County Council "...shares the concerns [RISE] is highlighting, over legislation currently being proposed by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, John Gormley T.D. This Council calls on the Government to listen to the concerns being expressed by those who engage in hunting and other outdoor activities..."

Cllr Enda McGloin (Fine Gael, Leitrim County Council)
"I have no difficulty supporting your cause for animal welfare rights. I am against such blood sports. I would be happy to support a motion at local level if required." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Siobhan McGloin (Fine Gael, Leitrim County Council)
At a June 2010 meeting of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Siobhan McGloin voted in favour of motion in support of the pro-bloodsports RISE campaign. The motion stated that Leitrim County Council "...shares the concerns [RISE] is highlighting, over legislation currently being proposed by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, John Gormley T.D. This Council calls on the Government to listen to the concerns being expressed by those who engage in hunting and other outdoor activities..."

Cllr Thomas Mulligan (Fine Gael, Leitrim County Council)
"Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council Thomas Mulligan said he had an interest in many field sports and had never seen anything of concern in relation to animal welfare and saw no benefits in banning these activities." (Leitrim Observer, May 24, 2010).

At a June 2010 meeting of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Thomas Mulligan voted in favour of motion in support of the pro-bloodsports RISE campaign. The motion stated that Leitrim County Council "...shares the concerns [RISE] is highlighting, over legislation currently being proposed by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, John Gormley T.D. This Council calls on the Government to listen to the concerns being expressed by those who engage in hunting and other outdoor activities..." The minutes of the meeting note that "he stated that it is appreciated that the legislation as it is proposed at present would be acceptable but there is genuine concern that this is the 'thin edge of the wedge'."

Cllr Paddy O'Rourke (Fianna Fail, Leitrim County Council)
In 2010, Councillor Paddy O’Rourke supported motions in support of the pro-bloodsports RISE campaign. One of the motion was that "Leitrim County Council support the "Rise Campaign" (Rural Ireland says enough) concerning the legislation being brought in to ban all field sports which would have a devastating effect on people's livelihood." According to the minutes of a 14th June 2010 council meeting, "Councillor Paddy O’Rourke supported the motions. He stated that nobody is supporting any form of abuse of animals but that there is a place for culling etc and a balanced attitude and approach is required."

Limerick City and County Council

Jason Griffin (People's Candidate, Limerick City and County Council)
"Personally speaking, I feel that any forms of cruelty, of which there are many, are an attack on our very selves and our hope for a compassionate & sustainable future." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Micheal Hourigan (Fine Gael, Limerick City and County Council)
"I am opposed to all forms of animal cruelty." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Joe Leddin (Labour Party, Limerick City and County Council)
"Totally opposed to both [foxhunting and hare coursing]" from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Diarmuid Scully (Fine Gael, Limerick City and County Council)
"I'm not in favour of either [foxhunting or hare coursing] but then as a city councillor I've never come across them. Fox hunting has always struck me as unnecessarily cruel especially given that a less repulsive alternative - namely drag hunting - has existed for many years. Hare coursing is something I know very little about. I do recall debates from many years ago where enthusiasts opposed even the muzzling of dogs, something I understand is now routine. I won't go so far as to say it should be banned. I'd need to study the issue more closely, but I'd certainly be skeptical about its value." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Elena Secas (Labour Party candidate, Limerick City and County Council)
"I think best way to lower incidences of animal cruelty & prevent it from happening is by highlighting it through the media. This will be a way of educating and explaining why certain practices are not acceptable in our modern and developed society." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr John Sheahan (Fine Gael, Limerick City and County Council)
In 2013, Cllr John Sheahan called for an "open season on the hen harrier" - one of Ireland's rarest birds. The call was strongly condemned by the Irish Raptor Study Group who said "Cllr Sheahan’s call for an open season on Hen Harriers is highly irresponsible and can be interpreted as incitement to break both Irish and EU law. Hen Harriers are protected under Irish and EU legislation."

BirdWatch Ireland also condemned "in the strongest terms" John Sheahan's "highly irresponsible" comments. Group CEO Alan Lauder stated: "Cllr Sheahan's ill-informed and short-sighted statement shows how far we have to travel as a state in prioritising our natural heritage over the self-interest of individuals." He added: "Such statements can have far-reaching consequences. The Hen Harrier is protected under both Irish and European Union law, and Cllr. Sheahan's statement could be viewed as an incitement to break these laws. For any decision-maker to hold such views in the 21st Century is alarming. When that individual actually sits on the Advisory Committee of the Environmental Protection Agency and also represents Ireland on an EU committee that helps form policy on the environment, natural resources and biodiversity, as Cllr. Sheahan does, then it becomes pitiful, and even dangerous."

In October 2010, Cllr John Sheahan placed an advert in the Glin hare coursing meeting booklet. It stated: "Best wishes from John Sheahan, Local County Councillor"

Cllr Tom Shortt (Labour Party, Limerick City and County Council)
"I support a ban on foxhunting and hare coursing and I have advocated horse projects to reduce cruelty to horses in Limerick." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Longford County Council

Cllr Mae Sexton (Independent, Longford County Council)
"I am totally opposed to bloodsports. You have my full support for the campaign." Cllr Mae Sexton to ICABS, May 2014.

Louth County Council

Cllr Kevin Callan (Fine Gael, Louth County Council - Drogheda)
At a meeting of Drogheda Borough Council in 2012, Cllr Callan proposed a motion to ban wild animal-act circuses from using public borough land.

Cllr Mark Dearey (Green Party Candidate, Louth County Council)
Mark Dearey is a Dundalk Town Councillor and a candidate for Louth County Council.
"You can continue to enjoy the essence of the pastime on the basis of a drag hunt where the scent is dragged, rather than releasing a wild animal - but they turn their noses up at that...The other option is the release of the deer and its recapture before the hunt - the scent remains, but it doesn't lead to the animal being cornered, and in some cases killed. It's an exercise in terrorising the poor animal." Speaking as a Senator, Sunday Business Post, 04 April 2010

Cllr Finnan McCoy (Fine Gael, Louth County Council)
In 2007, Finnan McCoy spoke about cruel hare coursing in favourable terms, saying coursing clubs show care to the hares..."Were people to take as much care on the roads as was shown to the hares used at coursing club events, the annual road toll would be a lot lower, Ardee Town Commissioners Chairman Finnan McCoy told the recent monthly meeting. ‘There were 64 people killed on the roads in Louth last year, but there weren’t 64 hares killed in coursing,’ he said. The Chairman was commenting on Cmmr. Leonard Hatrick’s statement that he was outraged by the wilful destruction of young hares throughout the Ardee district and county...Chairman Finnan McCoy was anxious to make a distinction between the coursing clubs where the hares were ‘given injections and have their nails cut’ and unofficial meets where whippet dogs are used and the hares are given no chance." from Drogheda Independent, June 2007.

Cllr Ciaran McKenna (Socialist Party, Anti Austerity Alliance Candidate, Louth County Council)
"I am happy to confirm that the Socialist Party and myself as a Socialist Party Councillor are completely opposed to all bloodsports or any sport or activity that compromises the welfare of animals. I am opposed to hunts being permitted to trespass on lands and to hunts having access to public roads. I am also opposed to vivisection and animal testing. We also oppose profiteering at the expense of animal welfare such as using animals in circuses or other commercial enterprises. I have supported the ban on wild animals in circuses on council land in Drogheda. Socialist Party Councillors in Fingal have also moved motions on this issue.

"Our TD Joe Higgins has been supportive of all animal welfare issues including banning bloodsports and has spoken in the Dail on these issues many times. Paul Muphy Socialist Party MEP has also been active on many Animal Welfare issues at European Level. He has highlighted the plight of the Galgos in Spain, banning the fur trade to name just a few.

"While we welcome recent legislation in animal welfare as an improvement in our view it does not go far enough. We call for resources to be put into Animal welfare immediately to deal with the current crisis situation exacerbated by the austerity policies of this government at local and national level. We also call for investment in education on animal rights and welfare." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Mayo County Council

Donal Geraghty (Independent candidate, Mayo County Council - Castlebar)
"Ban" from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Joe Mellett (Fine Gael, Mayo County Council)
"I have assisted the ISPCA and, in particular, the local branch in Ballina in getting Mayo County Council to allocate monies in their budget towards animal welfare and especially in the care of abandoned horses/ponies." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Meath County Council

Cllr Shane Cassells (Fianna Fail, Meath County Council)
ICABS thanked Cllr Shane Cassells in 2010 for being one of only 3 Meath County Councillors who voted against a pro-blood sports motion. "I firmly believe that the majority of Meath people are in favour of seeing the pursuit of live deer banned...I was very pleased to speak out against the mistruths which the RISE campaign are using to try and advance their cause." Read More

John V Farrelly (Fine Gael, Meath County Council)
In 2011, John V Farrelly put forward a motion in support of pro-bloodsports group, RISE, and a reversal of the ban on staghunting.

Cllr Brian Fitzgerald (Independent, Meath County Council)
"Cllr Brian Fitzgerald said stag-hunting had been part of life in the county for a very long time. The object of stag-hunting was not to go out and kill the stag, he said." from "Majority of Meath cllrs vote to reverse stag-hunting ban", Nenagh Guardian, 11th January, 2012.

Cllr Oliver Fox (Fianna Fail, Meath County Council)
"Cllr Oliver Fox said hunting was a part of country life. It employed a lot of people who enjoyed partaking in hunting." from "Majority of Meath cllrs vote to reverse stag-hunting ban", Nenagh Guardian, 11th January, 2012.

Cllr Wayne Harding (Fianna Fail, Meath County Council)
"I am calling on this Council to request Minister Jimmy Deenihan to reverse the ban on Stag Hunting with immediate effect as promised by both Fine Gael and Labour prior to the General Election". The motion was proposed by Councillor Tommy Reilly and seconded by Councillor Wayne Harding. From the minutes of Meath County Council's January 2012 meeting.

Nick Killian (Independent, Meath County Council)
In 2010, Nick Killian criticised Green Party efforts to ban the cruel Ward Union deerhunt. In a statement published on his website, Killian stated: "As a Fianna Fail member I am disgusted that a Fianna Fail Government is allowing Gormley and his gang of do gooders walk all over the people of Rural Ireland. Its not just the Stag hunting ban, but the Dog Breeding Bill and the banning of Turf Cutting on certain Bogs to protect a few flowers."

In the Irish Times of 15 December 2009, Nick Killian was quoted as saying that he was "disgusted" with Fianna Fail for supporting a banning of the cruel Ward Union hunt. He made the comment at a pro-hunt meeting at Trim Castle Hotel.

At a Meath County Council meeting in December 2007, Nick Killian called on the Minister for the Environment to "make a decision on the issue of a licence to the Ward Union Hunt".

Alan Lawes, (People Before Profit candidate, Meath County Council - Navan)
"I am against any activity that is cruel to animals, including the ones you mentioned [foxhunting and hare coursing]. Yes I would be in favor [of a ban on bloodsports]." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Noel Leonard, (Fianna Fail, Meath County Council)
At a meeting of Meath County Council in January 2012, Cllr Leonard voted against a motion which called for a reversal of the ban on stag hunting. He said "I oppose stag hunting for the simple reason that it is cruel" and that "there is no need for stag hunting in this day and age." He also made the point that "not one job has been lost as a result of the ban - the statistics are there to prove it."

Cllr Gerry O'Connor (Fine Gael, Meath County Council)
"I am opposed to all forms of animal cruelty. I support Minister Coveney in regards the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013. I understand that people are passionate about legitimate field sports but want clear standards to protect animal welfare and ensure that these sports are carried out in a proper manner." from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Tommy Reilly (Fianna Fail, Meath County Council)
"I am calling on this Council to request Minister Jimmy Deenihan to reverse the ban on Stag Hunting with immediate effect as promised by both Fine Gael and Labour prior to the General Election". The motion was proposed by Councillor Tommy Reilly and seconded by Councillor Wayne Harding. From the minutes of Meath County Council's January 2012 meeting.

Monaghan County Council

Margaret Conlon (Fianna Fail Candidate, Monaghan County Council)
As a Fianna Fail TD in 2010, Margaret Conlon voted in favour of the ban on carted deer hunting.

Cllr Sean Conlon (Sinn Fein, Monaghan County Council)
In 2012, Cllr Conlon proposed a motion in support of a ban on circuses that involve the degradation and abuse of wild animals. The motion was successfully passed at a meeting of Monaghan County Council.

"Continued use in a modern compassionate society of wild animals in circuses should be a thing of the past." Cllr Sean Conlon, 5th September 2012.

Kevin Hamill (People's Candidate, Monaghan County Council)
"I am totally against Fox hunting as the aim is to kill the Fox, however ppl Hare hunting do not have this agenda." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014. ICABS replied to point out that chasing hares with packs of hounds is cruel and that hares are killed in hare hunting. Kevin Hamill responded to say "I don't want to see cruelty to any animals."

Peadar Markey (Labour Party candidate, Monaghan County Council)
"I'm totally against it [foxhunting and hare coursing]. Never possessed a hunting gun." from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Offaly County Council

Cllr Molly Buckley (Fine Gael, Offaly County Council)
In May 2010, the Offaly Express reported that Molly Buckley seconded a pro-bloodsports motion put forward by Cllr Liam Quinn. The motion called for support for the RISE hunting and hare coursing campaign. The report outlined that Buckley claimed that "traditional field sports had a huge economic value to the county". "It supports tourism and conservation," the paper quoted her as saying.

Cllr John Carroll (Independent, Offaly County Council)
In May 2010, the Offaly Express quoted John Carroll as saying: "Minister Gormley is a long way removed from rural Ireland's traditions [in his move to ban stag hunting]. First it's stag hunting, but there will be more down the line."

Cllr Dervill Dolan (Independent, Offaly County Council)
In May 2010, an Offaly Express report on a pro-bloodsports Council motion quoted Dervill Dolan as saying "the industry was well regulated" and that a ban on staghunting "will impact negatively on rural life".

Cllr Liam Quinn (Fine Gael, Offaly County Council)
In May 2010, the Offaly Express reported on a pro-bloodsports motion put forward by Liam Quinn. The motion called for support for the RISE hunting and hare coursing campaign.

Roscommon County Council

Cllr Charlie Hopkins (Fine Gael, Roscommon County Council)
"I have been a paid up member of Roscommon SPCA for 16 years. I abhor cruelty to any animal - domestic, farm or wild. I am totally opposed to all forms of blood sports...I believe that animals need people to speak up for them. And as a county councillor, I would always be prepared to be their voice." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Michael Mulligan (Sinn Fein, Roscommon County Council)
"With you all the way - total ban on bloodsports." from a comment left on the ICABS Facebook page, May 2014.

Sligo County Council

Thomas Healy (Sinn Fein Candidate, Sligo County Council)
"I am against all forms of cruelty to animals." from a tweet to ICABS, April 2014.

James Higgins (Fis Nua Candidate, Sligo County Council)
"I grew up in a farm in Leitrim and have always been against animal cruelty. I would especially like to see a ban on the shooting of Pheasants." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Jim McGarry (Labour Party, Sligo County Council)
"I am completely against animal cruelty in all its forms. I am a vegetarian and I oppose both foxhunting and hare coursing. It is an issue that is very close to my heart." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Eamon Scanlon (Fianna Fail Candidate, Sligo County Council)
As a Fianna Fail TD in 2010, Eamon Scanlon voted in favour of the ban on carted deer hunting.

Tipperary County Council

Cllr Sylvia Cooney Sheehan (Fianna Fail, Tipperary South County Council)
"I do not support Blood Sports...I supported the Ban on Stag Hunting." From an email to ICABS in September 2010.

Cllr Ger Darcy (Fine Gael, Tipperary North County Council)
Opposition to the Government's hunting proposals was also expressed at last month's meeting of North Tipperary Co Council, where local councillors spoke of the importance of hunting in the county...Cllr Ger Darcy (Fine Gael) said the council should be promoting hunting as part of its bid to draw more visitors to North Tipperary. He also described hunting as an alternative sport for young people that don't pick up the mainstream sports of hurling, rugby and soccer. From an article in the Nenagh Guardian, 10th July 2010.

Cllr Pat English (Workers and Unemployed Action Group, Tipperary South County Council)
At a June 2010 meeting of South Tipperary County Council, Cllr Pat English voted in favour of a motion in support of the pro-bloodsports RISE campaign. The motion stated that "South Tipperary County Council note the increased level of country wide support of the Rural Ireland Says Enough campaign and shares the concerns it is highlighting over legislation currently being proposed by the Minister for the Environment John Gormley, T.D. That this Council calls on the Government to listen to the concerns being expressed, involve all stakeholders involved in rural sporting activities i.e. hunting, fishing, coursing etc. in full consultation and to respond appropriately." According to the minutes of the meeting, Cllr English "supported the motion but stressed that [he was] opposed to stag hunting.

Cllr John Hogan (Fianna Fail, Tipperary North County Council)
"I support coursing...I believe that you are misinformed when you claim that most people find hare coursing abhorrent and unacceptable." (From an email to ICABS, 10th September 2010)

Cllr Mary Hanna Hourigan (Fine Gael, Tipperary South County Council)
"I couldn't bear to look at that [hare coursing] footage, it would make me too angry and upset. I fully support your point of view." from an email to ICABS in March 2012.

Cllr John Kennedy (Labour, Tipperary North County Council)
Opposition to the Government's hunting proposals was also expressed at last month's meeting of North Tipperary Co Council, where local councillors spoke of the importance of hunting in the county. Councillors John Kennedy (Lab) and Jonathan Meaney (Lab) submitted a notice of motion urging the council to recognise the increasing level of popular support being expressed for the RISE (Rural Ireland Says Enough!) campaign and call on the Government to heed the campaign's concerns. From an article in the Nenagh Guardian, 10th July 2010.

Cllr Richie Molloy (Independent, Tipperary South County Council)
In 2008, the then mayor of Clonmel, Richie Molloy, was asked to stop supporting cruel hare coursing after he was pictured in a local newspaper at the town's coursing finals. In a letter to Cllr Molloy, the Irish Council Against Blood Sports expressed disappointment that he deemed it appropriate to attend an event involving cruelty to animals. "Considering the animal cruelty involved in coursing and the fact that a huge majority of Irish people want this blood sport banned, we hope that you can reconsider your stance," we stated.

At a February 2010 meeting of Clonmel Borough Council, Richie Molloy "proposed a welcome to the huge number of visitors currently in Clonmel for Coursing week".

Cllr Eddie Moran (Independent, Tipperary North County Council)
Opposition to the Government's hunting proposals was also expressed at last month's meeting of North Tipperary Co Council, where local councillors spoke of the importance of hunting in the county...Cllr Eddie Moran (Ind) said the hunts generate employment and trade in North Tipperary. From an article in the Nenagh Guardian, 10th July 2010.

Cllr Virginia O'Dowd (Labour Party, Tipperary North County Council)
"I am not a supporter of live animal hunting as a sport." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Michael Smith (Fianna Fail, Tipperary North County Council)
Opposition to the Government's hunting proposals was also expressed at last month's meeting of North Tipperary Co Council, where local councillors spoke of the importance of hunting in the county...Cllr Michael Smith (FF) also supported the motions, and while none of the councillors would be in favour of animal cruelty, he said there should be more dialogue between the stakeholders involved. From an article in the Nenagh Guardian, 10th July 2010.

Waterford City and County Council

Cllr Brendan Coffey (Fine Gael, Waterford City and County Council)
"I will not be reversing my position on this motion." in response to a September 2010 ICABS appeal which called on Waterford Councillors to reverse their support for a motion in favour of pro-bloodsports group, RISE.

Cllr Joe Conway (Independent, Waterford City and County Council)
"As one who has due regard for all living things, I support wholeheartedly your stance on animal cruelty. I took a stand - while Mayor - of non-cooperation with any circus owners who took their 'show' to town here." from an email to ICABS, March 2014.

Cllr John Hearne (Sinn Fein, Waterford City and County Council)
"I'm against all forms of animal cruelty. I banned with a motion all circus animals from council property and I'm in the process of passing a by-law to ban sulky racing off the roads...I voted against [a pro-coursing motion]. I believe if people want to entertain themselves it should not involve stressing animals." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Dee Jacques (Labour Party, Waterford City and County Council)
"I am against all and any cruelty to both humans and animals." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

Cllr Mary Roche (Independent, Waterford City and County Council - Waterford City East)
"Personally I would ban all blood sports." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Westmeath County Council

Colm Arthur (Fine Gael, Westmeath County Council)
In 2010, Cllr Arthur attended a Mullingar meeting of bloodsports lobby group, RISE.

Cllr Peter Burke (Fine Gael, Westmeath County Council - Mullingar-Coole)
When questioned about his position on bloodsports, Peter Burke wasn't prepared to reveal his stance. He claimed to know nothing about bloodsports, despite previously being furnished with information about the cruelty involved.

Cllr Detty Cornally (Labour, Westmeath County Council)
Responding to complaints about a foxhunting photo in the North Westmeath Hospice's 2014 calendar, hospice fundraising committee chairperson and local County Councillor Detty Cornally said: "Personally I love hunt pictures but just because I love the pictures does not mean that I like to kill foxes. It's not there to promote the sport, the pictures look nice." ICABS urged Councillor Cornally to look at our online picture gallery showing the gruesome reality of foxhunting, i.e. foxes that have been ripped apart by hounds and foxes that have been attacked by hunt terriers and dug out of their earths to be killed.

Una Darcy (Sinn Fein candidate, Westmeath County Council)
"Sinn Fein is opposed to cruelty to animals and supported the Animal Welfare Act in its passage through the Oireachtas." from a email to ICABS, May 2014. ICABS has highlighted to Una Darcy that Sinn Fein is currently in favour of cruel hare coursing.

Cllr Michael Dollard (Labour Party, Westmeath, Mullingar East)
Cllr Dollard spoke in favour of bloodsports lobby group, RISE at a Mullingar meeting in 2010.

Brian Fagan (Independent candidate, Westmeath County Council - Mullingar Coole/Kilbeggan)
"I am against all types of animal cruelty" (to an ICABS representative, May 2014).

Cllr Ken Glynn (Fianna Fail, Westmeath County Council)
In January 1999, Ken Glynn voted in support of a Mullingar Town Commission motion calling for a ban on foxhunting with hounds. At his first meeting as a Mullingar Town Commissioner, Commissioner Glynn expressed his disgust at foxhunting. "As a keen sportsman," he stated, "I think foxhunting is an insult to sport."

Donal Jackson (Independent candidate, Westmeath County Council - Athlone)
"I believe it to be unthinkable for anyone to be cruel to an animal and I certainly would never support such a situation. I consider fox hunting and hare coursing to be cruel and unjust and should be banned." from an email to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Denis Leonard (Labour Party, Westmeath County Council - Mullingar-Coole)
"I do not agree with cruelty to animals or testing on animals in any form." from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr Frank McDermott (Fine Gael, Westmeath County Council - Mullingar-Coole)
"I have no problem with Irish tradition." from a text message to ICABS, May 2014.

Kevin "Boxer" Moran (Independent candidate, Westmeath County Council - Athlone)
"My main political aims, if elected are...Lobby for the introduction of a Dept. of Agriculture supervised cull of unwanted horses."

Cllr Johnny Penrose (Labour Party, Westmeath, Mullingar West)
In 2010, Cllr Penrose attended a Mullingar meeting of bloodsports lobby group, RISE.

Wexford County Council

Cllr Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail, Wexford County Council)
Wexford County Councillor Malcolm Byrne has expressed opposition to coursing in Ireland, saying he would "support any legislation at national level that would ban hare coursing". The Fianna Fail politician's statement came in response to an ICABS email in which we highlighted the suffering caused to hares used as live lures in coursing. In September 2010, Cllr Byrne stated: "I am personally opposed to hare coursing, which I view as cruel."

Cllr Tony Dempsey (Fianna Fail, Wexford County Council)
In 2005, foxes and mink were doomed to lives of misery on fur farms following the rejection by Dail Eireann of the Fur Farming (Prohibition) Bill 2004. The bill was defeated by 67 votes to 50. Tony Dempsey was among the TDs who shamefully voted AGAINST the bill.

Cllr Robert Ireton (Labour Party, Wexford County Council)
"My views on hare coursing is that it should be banned. Any opportunity I get to voice my opinion on this, my reply is always the same and I have spoken about this on many occasions." (From an email to ICABS, 5th November 2013)

Cllr Paddy Kavanagh (Fine Gael, Wexford County Council)
"Enniscorthy councillor Paddy Kavanagh has sprung to the defence of his fellow greyhound owners in the war of words about dogs soiling the streets of the town. The Fine Gael man is a well-known race dog enthusiast but does not resort to roads to exercise them as he has plenty of fields at his disposal. He counselled against any witch hunt singling out town dwelling dog walkers with greyhounds in any campaign to take the dirt off the streets at the expense of an activity that has an economic benefit for the area. He said he would not like to see life made impossible for such people, who manage up to four greyhounds at a time while out and about...The councillor pointed out that an urban dog owner from Enniscorthy recently captured one of coursing's most prestigious prizes." from "Don't blame greyhound owners, says councillor" - Enniscorthy Guardian, 1st April 2013.

On TV3's Midweek programme in March 2012, Paddy Kavanagh revealed that his father used to be involved in hare coursing.

Seamus O’Brien (People Before Profit candidate, Wexford County Council - New Ross)
"I think [hare coursing and foxhunting] are horribly cruel and certainly not sports. I would support a ban." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Wicklow County Council

Joe Behan (Independent Candidate, Wicklow County Council)
As a TD in 2010, Joe Behan voted AGAINST the Bill which banned carted deer hunting.

Cllr Pat Kavanagh (Independent Candidate, Wicklow County Council)
Pat Kavanagh is a "a Local Community, Environmental and Animal Welfare Campaigner". She is currently a Wicklow Town Councillor and will be running as a candidate for Wicklow County Council.
"I am COMPLETELY opposed to blood sports - cruel, barbaric, inhuman" - Cllr Pat Kavanagh, 22nd March 2014.

"I have a huge interest in Animal Welfare - I challenged the Council cull of 63 horses in Ballyguile and will continue to seek out a no-cull solution to the equine crisis in Ireland. I have been a member and supporter of 'Chance', Wicklow Dog Pound Lobby & Rescue group since its inception. I was responsible for bringing in the Wicklow Town ban on circuses which use wild animals from performing or advertising on public lands. I am a member of the Irish Council Against Blood Sports - www.banbloodsports.com" - from a statement by Cllr Kavanagh on www.patkavanagh.net.

"You can be assured that you have my full support." Cllr Pat Kavanagh, Wicklow Town Councillor, January 2013

In 2011, as the then Deputy Co-Ordinator of the Fis Nua political party, Cllr Pat Kavanagh succeeded in getting the following motion passed at a party convention: "We denounce all forms of animal cruelty and terrorisation, and hunting animals for sport."

Nicola Lawless (Sinn Fein candidate, Wicklow County Council - Greystones)
"Yes I would be in favour of a ban on cruel hare coursing and fox hunting. I am against animal cruelty." from a tweet to ICABS, May 2014.

Cllr John Ryan (Fine Gael, Wicklow County Council / Bray)
"I would like to clarify that I am against animal cruelty." from an email to ICABS, April 2014.

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