asked the Taoiseach the reasons for his intervening in the regulations and practice of allowing Army officers only to ride Army horses.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Equitation Regulations.
2.
I did not intervene in this matter in the manner suggested in newspaper reports. My involvement was confined to transmitting to the Minister for Defence, for his consideration, representations which were made to me. The Defence Force regulations do not prescribe that Army horses are to be ridden only by Army officers.
Is it the situation that Army horses will be available to civilian riders if required?
It is a matter for the Minister for Defence. Discussions are going on about it.
Arising out of the situation, what would be the position in the event of a decision by the Government to join in the boycott of the Moscow Olympic Games? Would these horses be available to a team——
That is a separate question.
It is really the main issue.
It is very narrowly linked.
It is a serious aspect.
It is something the Government will have to look into very carefully.
The matter has not been given any thought yet?
Not yet.
The Taoiseach said he passed on representations made to him to the Minister for Defence. From whom were these representations received?
From people in the show jumping association.
A group or individuals?
A group.
A representative group?
Yes. They indicated to me that they were speaking for the show jumping association.
Would the Taoiseach assure the House that there is no truth in the rumour that he will make any of these horses into Ministers of State?
Not even a consul.
He might fall off.