Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 November 2020
787. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason horse racing and greyhound racing can continue under level 5 while horse eventing cannot; if this will be revisited to allow horse eventing to continue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34547/20]
View answerThe Sport Horse industry is an industry that has been supported by respective Governments down through the years. I am very much aware of its importance to the economy and the desire for all involved to resume all activities as soon as possible.
It is clear that Covid 19 is having a major effect on all sports, including Equine Sports. Ireland is currently at Level 5 in the fight against the disease. Whilst endeavouring to manage risk and repair the damage it has inflicted on society the county must be informed and guided by public health professionals, the advice of NPHET and relevant Government decisions. A Framework for Restrictive Measures has been developed to help us to go about our daily lives as much as possible, while managing the behaviour of the virus (reference: 'Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19').
I refer also to Statutory Instrument No. 448 of 2020 'Health Act 1947 (section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (Covid 19) (No. 8) Regulations 2020' where under Regulation 12 the holding of horseracing or greyhound racing at a racecourse can continue.
It is regrettable that equestrian events are not to open at present. However, as you are aware, the protection of public health and the actions taken are paramount at this time.
