Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon has highlighted the "scale and speed of progress" achieved in improving equine welfare and traceability.

The minister made the comments at the launch of the latest progress report on the implementation of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine's (DAFM's) Wall Report Action Plan.

DAFM commissioned veterinarian Prof. Paddy Wall to carry out a root-and-branch review of Ireland's equine traceability system following a June 2024 RTÉ Investigates documentary highlighting issues in the sector.  

The latest progress report shows 23 of the 31 actions scheduled for completion in 2025 have now been delivered, and the remaining eight actions are on track for completion in 2026.

DAFM said the centrepiece of this reform programme, the launch of the new Central Equine Database (CED) in October 2025, marked "a transformational turning point for equine traceability in Ireland”.

The department added that the database “is the foundation for a new traceability system and greatly improves owner accountability”. 

Minister Heydon said: “The scale and speed of progress we have achieved in implementing the Wall Report Action Plan demonstrates this government’s clear commitment to the Irish equine sector.

“Delivering 23 actions within a year, including a new central equine database, shows that we are not only listening to the sector, but acting decisively to strengthen it.”

Progress

The report shows that progress has been made across all five of the action plan’s key objectives.

These objectives are:

Ensure owner accountability through better traceability;
Stricter enforcement of equine identification and registration legislation;
Highest level of protection for horses at end of life;
Maximising the benefits of scientific and technology innovation;
Strong communication and influence.

Specific actions include: the introduction of a new inspection regime; the de-activation of operators who did not engage with the equine census; the data capture of international equine movements; and the funding of IT improvements to improve data transfer from passport issuing organisations and sales houses. 

Minister Heydon said his department’s investment in traceability is important to ensure the future of the sector.

He added: “Our equine industry is a source of national pride and international reputation.

“I want the Irish horse industry to be known for the highest standards of integrity, welfare and accountability. These actions are about building for the future.”