An Independent TD has tabled Dail questions to the Ministers for Justice and Agriculture relating to allegations of cruelty against a fox in Westmeath.
Last week Westmeath Hunt was fined 500 euro for breaching protocol during a recent meet.
Independent TD Tony Gregory has tabled Dail questions to both Justice Minister Brian Lenihan and Agricultire Minister Mary Coughlan.
In response, Brian Lenihan stated that the matter was under active investigation, following a complaint, which was in fact made by the Irish Council Against Blood Sports.
And in the course of her reply, Mary Coughlan informed Deputy Gregory that she was fully committed to promoting good practices that respect the welfare of all animals.
The Agriculture Minister also said that her Department is currently progressing a number of animal welfare-related committments from the Programme for Government.
The Council Against Blood Sports says it welcomes this long overdue move, initiated by the Green Party in government, and the fact that for the first time, non-farm animals will get protection from cruelty.
The Council says it hopes this will see an end to what it calls appaling treatment of foxes and other wild animals.