Martin Browne
Question:551. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Defence the estimated cost of purchasing nine additional horses for the Army Equitation School. [16884/21]
View answerWednesday, 31 March 2021
Questions (551)
Written answers
The mission of the Army Equitation School is to promote the Irish Horse through participation in international competition at the highest level. The Army Equitation School has discharged this task with considerable distinction down through the years and, through its participation and numerous successes in equitation events at home and abroad, it has successfully promoted 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.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the purchase price of any horse varies depending on a number of factors including age, ability, temperament etc. The School’s budget allocation in 2021 for horse acquisitions is €450,000. While it is difficult to predict the number of acquisitions this year, the Deputy might note that in 2020 three new horses were purchased and one horse leased by the School. The School have purchased two horses to date 2021.
I am satisfied that the current arrangements allow the School to maintain its competitiveness at national and international events.