Scrutiny Councillors in Swansea are looking at the issue of horses tethered on public land. They are considering a petition by a group called Friends of Swansea Horses that calls for the tethering of horses to be banned.
At a recent public meeting they heard evidence about the poor condition of many of the horses kept on tethers around Swansea. They also heard how problems identifying owners made it difficult for legal action to be taken.
A further meeting to discuss the issue will be held on Tuesday 8 March at 4.30 in Swansea Guildhall, Committee Room 3a. The public are welcome to attend and observe.
Councillor Jeff Jones, who is heading up the working group said:
This is a real issue of concern that has been raised through a public campaign. It is also a complex issue that will need careful consideration if we are going to find a solution given the financial challenges that the Council is facing.
We have heard some harrowing evidence about the state of some of these horses and we want to ensure that all avenues are explored so that more can be done.
The first meeting of the Tethered Horses Scrutiny Working Group took place on 7 January and included presentations from Friends of Swansea Horses, the Pettifor Trust and the RSPCA.
Councillor Mark Child, Cabinet Member for Wellbeing and Healthy City and Dave Picken, Divisional Trading Standards Officer for the Council also gave evidence.
The papers for the January meeting can be downloaded on the Scrutiny Publications page here.
The meeting taking place in March will hear from CHAPS – a local charity working to address this issue of tethered horses through education. South Wales Police will also attend to give their views.
If you have evidence that you would like to submit to this meeting please send it to the Scrutiny Team before the 25 February.
The Scrutiny Team can be contacted via scrutiny@swansea.gov.uk .
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