Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 December 2018
43. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if funding will be made available for the purchase of additional horses for the Defence Forces equitation school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52545/18]
View answerThe mission of the Army Equitation School is to promote the Irish horse through participation in national and international competitions at the highest level. The Equitation School has discharged this task with considerable distinction through the years. Through its participation and numerous successes in equitation events both at home and abroad it successfully promotes the qualities of the Irish horse.
The Army Equitation School continues to source suitable Irish bred horses that meet the required standard as judged by the School's Horse Purchase Board. Horses are acquired through either purchase or lease agreement.
The School currently has a stock of 37 horses made up of show jumpers and eventers.
While it is difficult to predict the number of future acquisitions, the Deputy should note that the Army Equitation School purchased 4 horses in 2017. To date in 2018, the School has acquired two horses with plans for a further acquisition before the end of the year.
