Flawed bill is a policy designed for headlines rather than habitats
Proponents say the bill will get rid of a cruel, colonial tradition of fox hunting with horses and hounds. Photo: Getty
TDs will today be asked to vote on one of the most contentious and flawed wildlife bills to come before the Oireachtas in decades: the Animal Health and Welfare (Ban on Fox Hunting) Bill.
Supporters portray it as a humane, modern break with an outdated tradition. In reality, the bill goes far beyond banning traditional mounted fox hunting.