: “Thousands of Irish Horses Missing Annually”

RTÉ Investigates Reveals Discrepancies in Irish Horse Traceability

RTÉ Investigates has uncovered shocking discrepancies in the traceability of thousands of Irish horses, shedding light on a major issue within the equine industry in Ireland and across Europe. Through extensive research and analysis, it has been revealed that up to 20,000 Irish horses are affected by this problem annually.

The Investigation Unveils Criminal Networks Laundering Horse Identities

The investigation delved into the various ways in which horses go missing, including the disturbing activities of criminal networks that manipulate the identities of horses unfit for human consumption to sneak them into the human food chain. Notably, a cross-border court case concluded in Marseille last year identified Irish horses as the primary source of supply for those involved in slaughtering horses with falsified identities in France.

Ringleaders Still Operating Despite Convictions

Despite being convicted and banned from all equine industry activities by a French court, one of the ringleaders of the network prosecuted in France continues to play a prominent role in determining the fate of Irish horses. This revelation raises serious concerns about the oversight and regulation of the equine industry.

European Connections and Food Safety Alerts

RTÉ Investigates compiled and analysed datasets from various EU member states, uncovering patterns in European food safety alerts that pointed to the use of fraudulent German horse identities. The investigation also highlighted significant links between Irish horses and continental slaughterhouses, with one abattoir being connected to a series of food safety alerts.

Concerns Raised by Authorities

The Department of Agriculture in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have expressed concerns over the discrepancies in horse traceability. The systems in place to track horses were not designed to reconcile what ultimately happens to them, leaving a significant gap in monitoring and regulation.

Call for Improved Tracking Systems

Zoe Williamson from World Horse Welfare emphasized the need for a more robust and digitized system for tracking equine identities. She highlighted the vulnerabilities of the current paper-based system and the ease with which passports can be fraudulently obtained and manipulated.

Collaboration and Investigation

Belgian authorities are currently conducting a judicial investigation into one of the men convicted in France, seeking cooperation from Irish authorities. The European Commission has pledged to address the issues uncovered by RTÉ Investigates, acknowledging the need for quick detection and intervention in cases of fraudulent behaviour.

Continued Coverage by RTÉ Investigates

RTÉ Investigates will continue to provide comprehensive coverage of this issue across its platforms in the coming days. Stay tuned for further updates and insights into the ongoing investigation into the traceability of Irish horses.