Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Question 183: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the number of thoroughbred horses here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12055/10]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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In relation to the number of thoroughbred horses in Ireland and having regard to statistics published by Horse Racing Ireland, I am aware there has been a reduction in the number of mares being covered from a peak of 20,700 in 2007 to 18,851 in 2009. In relation to the numbers of stallions registered for thoroughbred breeding, the number for 2009 is not finalised, but for the period from 2007 to 2008, the number of stallions declined from 416 to 312. The number of foals born has declined from a peak of 12,633 in 2007 to 10,167 in 2009. This decline is an indication of the market conditions that currently prevail in the sector in the context of balancing supply with demand.