Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

398. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of horses that joined the Defence Forces equitation school in 2022; the number of horses that left the equitation school during 2022; and the budget allocation for 2023 for same. [4195/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The mission of the Army Equitation School is to promote the Irish Horse through participation in international competition at the highest level. The Army Equitation School has discharged this task with considerable distinction down through the years and, through its participation and numerous successes in equitation events at home and abroad, it has successfully promoted the qualities of the Irish Horse.

The Army Equitation School continues to source suitable Irish bred horses that meet the required standard as judged by the School's Horse Purchase Board. Horses are acquired through either purchase or lease agreement.

In 2022 five new horses were purchased by the School. During 2022 a total of six horses left the Equitation School. 

The School’s budget allocation in 2023 for horse acquisitions is set at €350,000. I am satisfied that the current arrangements allow the School to maintain its competitiveness at national and international events.