Three years on from the introduction by the Welsh Government of a law to address “flygrazing”, a new report shows it has had a positive impact in reducing the number of horses reported and removed.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The report by Equiventus Ltd shows a clear link between the reduction in this behaviour and the approach taken to the problem in Wales , including the swift introduction of the Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014.
Other key interventions include an increase in education programmes for horse owners, a rise in public awareness of the problem and improved communication and collaborative working between the key agencies involved.
Welcoming the publication of the report, Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Planning and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths said
A copy of the report and the Welsh Government’s response can be found on the Welsh Government website.“Last year I commissioned Equiventus Ltd to evaluate the value and effectiveness of the Control of Horses (Wales) Act and to consider whether this had resulted in benefits for communities across Wales.
“It is positive news indeed the Act has played such an important role in reducing the number of horses reported and ultimately removed due to fly grazing, straying or abandonment. It is clear from the report’s findings that the Act has made a positive impact on reducing behaviour that has caused so many difficulties for the communities affected and for the animals involved.
“However, while the report by Equiventus Ltd is very good news we should not let our guard down and must continue with the partnership approach, with local authorities, the Police, landowners and welfare organisations to deliver on the report’s recommendations. I am determined to continue to do what’s needed to combat the blight on communities caused by incidents of fly grazing, straying and abandonment of horses and ponies.”