asked the Minister for Defence the total amount of prize money won by members of the army equitation team in 1987 and in 1988 to date; and the use which is being made of these moneys.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Equitation School Winnings.
11.
(Limerick West): An amount of £53,593 was won by members of the Army Equitation School in 1987, £27,096 has been won in 1988 to date. 50 per cent of the prize money which is received is paid to the members of the Army equitation team, the remainder goes to the Appropriations-in-Aid account and is not directed to any particular use but rather assists the overall Defence Vote.
Is the Minister aware that equestrian journals reported recently that the Army Equitation School travelled to a show in Navan for which they were officially entered at their own expense? Will the Minister agree that this is the first time in the history of the Defence Forces' Equitation School that that has happened? Will he agree that the pathetic situation it reveals is reflective of the careless and uncaring attitude of the Minister and the Government to the Defence Forces?
The Deputy has raised a specific matter which is more appropriate to a particular question.
(Limerick West): If the Deputy gives me the information regarding that matter I will have it examined and consult him later.
Will the Minister agree to refund members of the school the expenses they paid?
Will the prize money that has been won by the school be used to send Comdt. Mullins, or some other qualified rider, to the world championships this year? The Irish Field reported last week that the Army would not be represented at the world championships.
That is correct.
(Limerick West): I will have that matter examined and consult with the Deputy.