Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In keeping with the programme for Government, my Department is committed to working with local authorities, charities and community stakeholders and supporting urban horse welfare programmes, in particular in the context of facilities and education programmes.

In 2016, my Department committed to provide funding towards an equine facility being developed by the local authority in the Clondalkin area, as outlined by Deputy Carthy. This funding was committed on the understanding that the local authority was satisfied with the rules and governance of the club and that the project, when up and running, would be self-sustaining and would assist in reducing reliance on activities relating to the control of horses and in managing horse control problems in the area. The project also committed to the education of horse owners, particularly young horse owners, in the care and welfare of horses, as well as presenting educational and development opportunities for young people.

Last year, my Department agreed with the local authority to provide additional funding to the club in the context of restrictions associated with Covid-19, on the understanding that it would renew efforts to secure alternative funding and formulate a strategy for the organisation going forward. To date, my Department has provided funding in excess of €500,000 to the club through the local authority, which has been the largest capital commitment by my Department to local authorities in support of an urban horse programme. My Department's commitment extends to providing supports for the capital investment of developing such projects. It does not have a funding mechanism to cover the day-to-day running costs of such facilities. As part of a multi-agency approach, officials in my Department have been in regular contact with the local authority and the club as well as other Departments to secure long-term funding for the club. That work is ongoing.

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