asked the Minister for Defence whether he is prepared to reconsider his refusal as stated in a reply of 30th October, 1957, to draw on civilian riders in choosing a national horse-jumping team to represent Ireland in international events.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National Horse-Jumping Team.
39.
I still do not consider that a departure from long standing policy as suggested by the Deputy is necessary.
Does the Minister not agree that the Army is regrettably unable to the same extent as in the past, to compete on even terms in this field with other countries who are extending their choice very much more widely than they did in the past? Consequently our teams are at a disadvantage and our international prestige is being damaged by the continued use of Army teams alone in international show jumping events.
No. An effort is being made now, and it is meeting with some success, to build up the team both in regard to horses and riders and there is every reason to hope that in the future a reasonably high standard will be achieved.
If a civilian team was formed would the Army be allowed to take part in international competitions with them?
I think the Deputy is aware that a civilian team has been formed and is competing in other shows in addition to those in which the Army takes part. That is a welcome development, that more international shows are being attended.
If there were Army riders of sufficiently high calibre would they be allowed, if they were invited, to participate in competition with a civilian team?
That is a separate question.
I would have no objection.
What gives the Minister reason to hope that the standard of the Army horse-jumping team will improve?
The fact that young horses and young riders, considering their inexperience, performed creditably this year.
Has the Minister increased the limit the Army are allowed to pay for their horses?
Yes.
What is the present limit?
There is no limit on any particular horse.
There is a definite limit and that is one of the troubles in this matter.
Did the Deputy as Minister not impose it?
I think Deputy MacEntee, when he was Minister for Finance, imposed it. I increased it and it was to be still further increased.