Christopher O'Sullivan (Cork South West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Charity events are a big part of the social fabric of Ireland but they are under threat right across the country and are being cancelled because of insurance issues. The Taoiseach is probably familiar with the idea of a cheval ride. Those who did French for the leaving certificate will know it is a charity horse ride. Such rides are under threat because insurance companies are not giving cover for a horse and trap. A horse and trap is designed to take two or three people as passengers. Those who participate in a horse and trap are being asked to sign a document saying they will not take a passenger when traps are designed to take passengers. I do not mean to parrot what my friends in the Rural Independent Group would say, but it does seem almost like an attack on rural Ireland that these types of traditions cannot take place. If we are looking for sustainable transport, a horse and trap is one of the most sustainable, low-emitting ways to get from A to B. I would like this matter looked into so we can continue this tradition and, most importantly, raise funds for important causes.

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