League Against Cruel Sports responds to the defeat of the Animal Health and Welfare Bill 2025 in the Republic of Ireland

The League Against Cruel Sports (The League) has expressed deep disappointment following the defeat of the Animal Health and Welfare Bill 2025 in the Dáil.

Robbie Marsland from The League said ‘The outcome of this vote is a missed opportunity to end the cruelty of fox hunting and to reflect the clear public support for stronger protections for wildlife.

“The decisions made by elected representatives today is out of step with public opinion. Polling in the Republic of Ireland suggests that 72% of people support a ban on the hunting of foxes as well as 70% of people in Northern Ireland supporting a similar ban.

While it is disappointing the Bill has fallen at this stage, we are heartened to hear strong support from individual elected representatives, and we look forward to working with political parties to bring about a comprehensive ban across the island.

Turning to the Northern Ireland Assembly, we call on all parties to support John Blair’s Members Bill which calls for a similar ban of fox hunting in Northern Ireland.

The League Against Cruel Sports will continue to work with partners, campaigners, and legislators to secure meaningful and effective legislation that delivers real protection for wildlife and reflects the will of the public.”