Horse breeders seek €16m in funding

THE production of thoroughbred horses could provide rural communities with a viable alternative to mainstream farming, according to the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association (ITBA).

The body confirmed yesterday that it had made a submission to the Department of Agriculture and Food on the potential of the industry, seeking €16.26 million in funding towards five specific measures — under the 2007-2013 National Development Plan for Rural Development and Agriculture.

This would supplement €20.51m in funding that has already been put in place by the industry.