Horse Sport Ireland and RDAI secure €40,000 under the Dormant Accounts Fund for volunteer training

Horse Sport Ireland have been awarded funding of €40,000 under the Dormant Accounts Fund, for a volunteer training initiative put forward by Riding for the Disabled Association of Ireland (RDAI). Horse Sport Ireland, as the National Governing Body for Equestrian Sport, in collaboration with RDAI, sought this funding to deliver innovative and comprehensive training programmes for RDAI volunteers.

The announcement was made earlier this week by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross TD and the Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Patrick O’ Donovan TD. The process was administered by Sport Ireland.

Sport Ireland CEO John Treacy said:

“In line with the objectives of the National Physical Activity Plan, the investment through the Dormant Accounts Fund allows Sport Ireland, in conjunction with the National Governing Bodies for Sport, play a lead role in making sure more people are more active on a regular basis. This is a wonderful initiative from Horse Sport Ireland who, in partnership with the RDAI, will afford many people with physical or intellectual disabilities the opportunity to engage in a sport.”

Horse Sport Ireland CEO Damian McDonald welcomed the announcement and complimented the RDAI for developing the initiative.

“These funds were restricted to applications from recognised National Governing bodies but a lot of the preparatory work was done by the RDAI who worked with our staff here to prepare the applications. Sport Ireland ran a competitive tendering process and while we applied for €50,000 we were delighted to be allocated €40,000 from the fund. It is a further example of what can be done by working in collaboration. We look forward to working with Sport Ireland and the RDAI on the rollout of the programme in the coming weeks” he said.

Rosin Henry, Field Officer of RDAI said:

“We believe this funding will ensure that RDAI continues to provide the best possible experience for people with special needs by improving their general health and well-being and broadening their social horizons in a fun and safe environment, thus empowering all our athletes to reach their maximum potential.”