Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Sinn Féin have opposed legislation introduced by People Before Profit Solidarity TD Ruth Coppinger to ban foxhunting and the Dáil voted against it on Wednesday night by 124 votes to 24. Describing fox hunting as “barbarism”, she said “there is overwhelming opposition” to it in Ireland, pointing to a survey showing 73 per cent of people rejected it and just 12 per cent expressed support. It was “deeply emotive” but “fox hunting represents a long-held tradition and is a part of a way of life for those involved. Sinn Féin agriculture spokesman Martin Kenny said Sinn Féin’s position is decided at its ardfheis. There is “nothing republican about fox hunting”.

Source: The Irish Times December 18, 2025 12:54 UTC