Blood Sports

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blood sports have taken various forms in Ireland, including bull baiting, cock fighting, and fox hunting. They have, at various times, been enjoyed by spectators and participants from all classes and creeds. Concern at the cruelty of some sports began to be voiced from the middle of the 18th century, but when some events were finally suppressed in the 1790s it was more for public order reasons than out of concern for animal welfare. United Kingdom legislation to control cruel sports was enacted in 1835, and animal baiting, dog fighting, and cock fighting became illegal. This legislation, with some relatively minor later amendments, remains in force in both Irish states. Societies concerned with the welfare of animals, and opposed to some blood sports, began to be formed in Ireland from 1864, some years later than similar organizations in England. (However, it should be noted that Richard Martin (1754–1834), acknowledged as the founder of the Royal Society for the Protection of Animals in England, was a Co. Galway landlord.) Despite their prohibition, clandestine animal baiting and fighting continue across Ireland, with little effective opposition. Other blood sports, such as hare coursing and fox hunting, have not been legislated against and continue to be popular. Occasional protests are staged, but serious parliamentary opposition remains limited.

Neal Garnham