Gardaí in Trim, Co Meath, are investigating claims of a breach of legislation outlawing the hunting of stags, Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald has confirmed.

She told Independent TD Maureen O’Sullivan that “any breaches of legislation which may come to light will be properly pursued”.

But she said in a written parliamentary reply to the Dublin Central TD that “as the matter remains under investigation the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to make any further comment on the specific issues raised”.

Ms O'Sullivan had asked the Minister her view on a report that the Ward Union hunt had been "blatantly ignoring legislation outlawing the hunting of stags at Clonmahon House in County Meath".

She said it was confirmed by video evidence and a complaint was made to Trim Garda station.

Ms O’Sullivan had also asked the measures the Minister would take to “ensure that the law is upheld and that her department is not being undermined by the hunters claiming they accidentally come across stags”.