An exhausted horse recently collapsed and died during an illegal sulky race on public roads in Clonmel, County Tipperary, sparking outrage among locals and animal welfare advocates. Senator Chris Andrews of Sinn Fein condemned the ongoing dangerous practice, highlighting previous incidents including a pregnant mare’s death in Dublin, and called on the government to enforce stricter regulations and hold sulky racers accountable. Despite being illegal under the Road Traffic Act since 1993, these races persist, often organized secretly within the Traveller community, making policing by the Gardai challenging.

Animal charities have also condemned the races, emphasizing the severe welfare issues for the horses and the public safety risks posed by racing on busy roads. Groups like My Lovely Horse Rescue have called for the establishment of a dedicated Garda Animal Crime Unit to better address these crimes, urging the public to support their campaign to end the dangerous and inhumane practice.