Horse Sport Ireland request for earlier resumption of Youth & Amateur Competition

Horse Sport Ireland have held ongoing discussions recently with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, specifically requesting an immediate resumption of all youth and non-elite (amateur) competitive action. HSI outlined in detail the many different reasons as to why it feels a return to competition for youth and non-elite is warranted. Regrettably however, the Department have rejected HSI’s request and they have advised the timeline as set (7th June) for those divisions to resume competitive sport, will be adhered to.

It is important to note that this decision is not one taken or supported by Horse Sport Ireland, but rather direct from Government.

Given that there are two international events scheduled on the same weekend, (3rd to 7th June at Millstreet and Mullingar) HSI have reverted seeking allowances for youth and amateurs to participate at these flagship events. HSI appreciate this is does not serve AIRC members and other non-elite members within the affiliate family wishing to resume competition, however it is a smaller concession request which may be looked favourably upon, given events are very close to the resumption date of 7th June.

HSI have immediately placed a request with Sport Ireland to allow defined youth High Performance athletes resume competitive action as soon as possible. It should be noted that Sport Ireland did extend an earlier intercounty movement allowance for High Performance training only.

HSI are awaiting a response to out latest request and will issue further information as soon as it becomes available.