Four in five horse riders experience issues while travelling on the roads

Horses, however well-trained and they might be, can still be unpredictable and frightened by something they regard as a threat

Pictured at the launch of the road safety appeal was: Garda Dave Early (Garda Mounted Unit), Garda Lisa Halligan (Garda Mounted Unit), Suzanne Campbell, Anna Boucher-Hayes, and Robin Boucher-Hayes. Picture. Keith Arkins

Any person with experience of riding and leading horses on public roads or motorists who drive past them are well aware of how they can react to sudden noises and distractions.

Horses have been travelling the roads of Ireland for centuries and have every right to do so, but those in charge of their movements, and motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and others who encounter them on their travels, must always exercise care.