asked the Minister for Finance whether racehorse owners and trainers have permission to exercise and gallop racehorses in the 15 acres of the Phoenix Park, if so, the condition or restrictions attached to such permission, if he is satisfied that the galloping and exercise of racehorses is consistent with the safety of the general public using the park; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Exercising Racehorses in the Phoenix Park.
75.
The Commissioners of Public Works licence the exercising of racehorses in the Phoenix Park in accordance with the by-laws. The conditions for the exercise of racehorses include:—1. entry for horses is restricted to a specified gate; 2. exercising can only take place at certain times and on certain days. Normally racehorses will not be permitted entry on Sundays; 3. horses cannot be exercised outside the areas designated by the Commissioners; 4. riding upon footpaths, grass slopes or margins is strictly prohibited; 5. horses to be ridden at walking pace between the gate and the approved exercise area; 6. owners or trainers of racehorses must take out insurance against all claims for loss, damage or injury to any person, animal or thing.
This activity which is traditional in the park is provided for in the by-laws and the conditions under which the licences are granted are designed to ensure, in so far as possible, that it does not interfere with the public's enjoyment of the park.