International opt out shouldn’t diminish SJAI’s role

MICHAEL DOWLING, chairman of the implementation group charged with setting up the umbrella body for equestrianism, yesterday said the ending of the Show Jumping Association of Ireland’s international status should not affect its role in the umbrella organisation.

“The decision of the SJAI not to involve itself at an international level should not make any difference, in principle, to the part it will play in the umbrella body,” said Mr Dowling.

However, Mr Dowling would not comment on whether the SJAI would have a reduced representation on the board of Horse Sport Ireland, following its decision to focus on a domestic level and give total control of international team selection and training to the Equestrian Federation of Ireland.