Louis J. Belton
Question:180 Mr. Belton asked the Minister for Defence the situation with regard to the purchase of Irish horses by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26371/00]
Written Answers. - Army Equitation School.
The Army Equitation School has a unique role. Established in 1926 with a mission to promote the Irish horse abroad through participation in international competitions, the school has since then not alone been an excellent showcase for Irish horses but its riders have represented Ireland with distinction throughout the world.
The policy down the years had been to purchase for use by the equitation school only horses which contained no foreign blood. This policy had over recent years become somewhat of an anachronism due to developments in the breeding industry which has seen increased numbers of foreign stallions breeding in Ireland. In order to widen the pool of potential showjumpers available to the school, and following consultation with the officer commanding the school and the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, I recently announced that the guidelines for the acquisition of horses for the school should be sufficiently broad so as to allow for the acquisition of horses that are by foreign stallions approved by the Irish Horse Board.
This new policy will broaden the pool of potential showjumpers available for purchase by the equitation school while continuing to support the Irish horse breeder. It will improve the quality of the school's stock and its competitiveness which, in turn, will enhance the image of the Irish horse industry throughout the world. Out of 13 horses acquired by way of purchase or lease for the Army Equation School this year, three are Irish foaled and bred with foreign sires.