O’Shea Calls for Clampdown on Sulky Racing

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has called on the Minister for Transport, Minister for Justice and the Garda Commissioner to ensure that An Garda Síochána and all other state agencies has all necessary powers and resources required to tackle sulky racing.

Deputy O’Shea raised the issue through a series of Parliamentary Questions to the Department of Transport and Justice, seeking clarification on whether the Government intends to review existing legislation and consider enhanced enforcement powers in relation to illegal sulky racing in known hotspot areas.

In response, the Minister for Transport confirmed that while section 74 of the Roads Act 1993 provides for the regulation of certain road races, no classes of race have ever been formally prescribed under the legislation. The Minister also acknowledged that enforcement can prove difficult in many cases, particularly where there is no identifiable organiser involved in the races.

Commenting on the reply, Deputy O’Shea said, “Illegal sulky racing on public roads poses a serious danger not only to participants, but also to motorists, pedestrians, local residents, and indeed the animals involved. Communities should not have to tolerate dangerous racing activity taking place on public roads.”

Deputy O’Shea noted that while Gardaí can enforce existing road traffic legislation, concerns remain regarding the practical difficulties of intervention and prosecution under the current legal framework.

“The response makes clear that enforcement challenges exist, particularly where there is no clearly identifiable organiser. That is why I believe the Minister for Justice and the Garda Commissioner must now examine whether Gardaí have sufficient powers and operational supports to properly address this activity.”

The Cork North West TD also called for stronger targeted enforcement operations in areas where illegal sulky racing has become a recurring problem.

“Dedicated Garda operations in identified hotspot areas could act as a significant deterrent. Communities deserve reassurance that this dangerous activity will not be allowed continue unchecked.”

Deputy O’Shea stressed that road safety must remain the overriding priority and warned of the wider risks posed by vehicles accompanying races.

“In many cases, there are support vehicles driving dangerously alongside races, creating extremely hazardous conditions for all other road users. This behaviour cannot be normalised or ignored.”

The Minister also confirmed that animal welfare concerns relating to sulky racing fall under the remit of the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

Deputy O’Shea said a coordinated approach across Government agencies is needed to fully address the issue.

“This is not solely a transport issue or a policing issue. It touches on road safety, public safety, and animal welfare. There must be a coordinated response to ensure that Gardaí and all relevant authorities are fully equipped to intervene effectively.”

Concluding, Deputy O’Shea said, “People have a right to feel safe using public roads. Gardaí must have all necessary powers, resources, and legislative backing required to tackle illegal sulky racing and protect local communities.”