Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 February 2021
1070. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the level of oversight his Department had on the process of the development of a centre of excellence by Horse Sport Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9906/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraHorse Sport Ireland (HSI) is a company limited by guarantee. It is not a State Body established by legislation and it is operationally independent of my Department.
I am advised that a selection process to decide on a site and location for its new Headquarters and Centre of Excellence was carried out by a sub-committee of the Board.
HSI advises that the work of the sub-committee has been ongoing for two years and has involved the consideration of many different locations. It engaged with a range of potential sites and hired a property valuer and adviser to review property and land offerings as well as availability of property to purchase, rent or develop.
HSI appointed an independent consultant to carry out a detailed feasibility study in this regard, following a competitive request for tender. The final decision on a site and venue however is a matter for the Board of HSI.
