Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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An investigation was carried out into the operation of the Army Equitation School in McKee Barracks, Dublin, following on from unattributed rumours which suggested that certain unacceptable practices were happening in the equitation school. The Chief of Staff advised me that there were no grounds for believing that anything untoward was actually happening in the equitation school. However, as a proactive measure, he felt it prudent to move quickly to safeguard the school's good name and reputation.

The investigation into the operation of the Army Equitation School was carried out by the Military Police in conjunction with two independent veterinary surgeons from UCD Veterinary College. The investigation was carried out both at the equitation school in McKee Barracks, where there are almost 40 horses stabled, and at the equitation detachment at the Curragh Camp in County Kildare, where up to 12 non-competition horses are kept. The investigation included an examination of animal husbandry and interviews with all relevant personnel including grooms and riding officers.

I am pleased to announce that there were no findings that would suggest any mistreatment or abuse of the animals whatsoever. The report found that the general facilities, the care and training given to the horses and the veterinary standards were all excellent and that the school was being run to a high standard.