Alderman Glenn Barr, Ulster Unionist councillor, has called for a full investigation following the death of a horse in Gilford over the weekend, amid serious concerns about the welfare of three horses at the location.
Having become aware of the situation, Alderman Barr immediately reported his concerns to Council Animal Welfare and has since requested a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the horse’s death.
“I am deeply saddened to learn that one of these horses has sadly died. It is an upsetting situation, and my thoughts are with everyone who has been concerned about the welfare of these animals.
“When I became aware of the circumstances, I acted immediately by reporting the matter to Council Animal Welfare. I have also requested a full investigation to establish exactly what happened and whether any neglect or wrongdoing has occurred.
“I have seen correspondence from the USPCA and understand that Council Animal Welfare is investigating. I am also aware that the PSNI is involved in the matter.
“I understand that the remaining two horses have now been moved by animal welfare officers. Their welfare must remain a priority, and I hope they will receive the care and attention they need.
“Animal welfare concerns must always be taken seriously. No animal should be left to suffer, and where evidence establishes that neglect or wrongdoing has occurred, there must be appropriate action and accountability.
“I will continue to seek answers and follow this matter closely. Given the ongoing investigation, it is important that the relevant authorities are allowed to establish the facts, but the death of this horse must not simply be brushed aside.”
Alderman Barr has reiterated his call for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the horse’s death and the welfare concerns involving the animals.
Just days ago, Newry-based animal welfare charity USPCA released fresh statistics on the sharp increase of animal welfare reports received over the last year.
The number of reports relating to animal welfare concerns and investigative activity has increased almost 175% in the past year, according to the charity with a total of 327 reports made between April and September 2026, up from the 119 recorded in the same period last year.
The total comprises 200 animal welfare reports, compared with 75 in April–September 2025, and 127 additional reports from investigative activity.
Of the 200 animal welfare reports, 92 concerned neglect, 32 suspected malnourishment and 24 alleged mistreatments.
Dogs accounted for 42%; horses, ponies and donkeys accounted for 58 reports, almost 30%, an emerging issue over the past eighteen months.
The news comes ahead of a major research workshop led by the USPCA alongside charities, statutory agencies and researchers at Queen’s University and the Animal Welfare Evidence Centre on October 28.
Heather Weir, Chief Executive of the USPCA, said: “Every animal deserves care and protection. Supporting the USPCA puts compassion into action and helps sustain our work towards a future free from cruelty.
“These latest figures show a substantial rise in the concerns reported and recorded by the charity, with neglect the most frequently reported issue.
“The USPCA works collaboratively with the statutory agencies raising concerns as soon as we learn about them, so the impact of cruelty and neglect can be addressed before it is too late and animals died needlessly.
“We stand with DAERA, the councils and other agencies, ready to support robust investigations and care of animals. Please stand with us for a kinder future for animals.”
Of the 200 animal welfare reports, 198 covered Northern Ireland’s eleven council areas, one concerned the Republic of Ireland, and one had no recorded location.
Newry, Mourne and Down, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, and Belfast City together accounted for 51%. This distribution is not a population-adjusted comparison of welfare conditions.
She said Wednesday’s workshop would help bring a clearer understanding of these concerns.
“This event will explore gaps in evidence, barriers to collecting and using data, as well as developing shared research priorities for Northern Ireland.
“This multi-sector approachaims to lay the foundations for better-informed services and more effective prevention of cruelty.
“Our shared compassion for animals can bring us together across organisational boundaries.
“Alongside Animal Welfare Officers, DAERA and other agencies, the USPCA is working towards a kinder future, one where every animal is cared for and cruelty and neglect have no place. ”
