Ministers signal support for the establishment of HSI

EFFORTS to set up a unified body for equestrian sport (Horse Sport Ireland) were boosted this week with a show of support by Agriculture Minister Joe Walsh and Arts, Sport and Tourism Minister John O’Donoghue.

Their pronouncement came following a meeting on February 21 of the Equestrian Federation of Ireland (EFI), the Irish Horse Board, the Irish Sports Council and the Departments of Arts, Sport and Tourism and Agriculture and Food.

It is timely, considering the recent announcement by the EFI of a modernisation drive a precursor to the setting up of Horse Sport Ireland which saw it declare the need to forge ahead without the immediate inclusion of the Irish Horse Board. The sudden push forward caught many by surprise and could have led to a fragmentation of the process. However, the Government backing, with its implicit promise of financial support, will certainly help to concentrate minds.