Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 14 July 2015

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Horse Industry in Ireland: Discussion (Resumed)

2:00 pm

Mr. Derek Iceton:

We were not notified that there was a change in the statutory instrument. It was news to me today and I find this shocking. The committee asked about the breed improvement scheme. It is difficult because it is not like the cattle industry. One is not producing for a particular trade. We meet breeders throughout the country and try to show them how to produce a better horse in all shapes and forms. These meetings are usually well-attended. I do not wish to give a negative view of our industry. We are fortunate to have plenty of young and older successful breeders. The country is full of good breeders. My concern is for some of the smaller ones who are going through a tough time at the moment. I thank the committee for its attention and for the questions.