Horse Sport Ireland has paid tribute to Dr. Dermot Forde and thanked him for his long-standing service and outstanding contribution to Irish equestrian sport as his role in the position of FEI National Head Veterinarian comes to an end.
Dr. Forde, a veterinary surgeon who also holds a Diploma in Sports Law, has dedicated much of his professional life to the development of equestrian sport in Ireland.
He has accumulated a lifetime of experience and has made a significant contribution to the development of the Irish equine industry with his involvement at national level dating back to 1976, when he was appointed Breeding Manager of the Irish Horse Board.
During his time with the Irish Horse Board, Dr. Forde oversaw the introduction of the Irish Horse Register, an important development in the organisation and identification of Ireland’s horse population and one which has played a significant role in the development of the Irish Sport Horse and the wider Irish equine industry.
More recently, Dr. Forde has provided many years of dedicated service as FEI National Head Veterinarian for Ireland, bringing extensive veterinary expertise, experience and knowledge of international equestrian governance to the role.
His contribution has extended across veterinary regulation, horse welfare and Ireland’s participation in international equestrian sport, providing invaluable support to Horse Sport Ireland, the Irish equestrian community and Ireland’s engagement with the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI).
Horse Sport Ireland Chief Executive Denis Duggan said: “On behalf of Horse Sport Ireland, I would like to sincerely thank Dermot for his exceptional contribution to Irish equestrian sport over such a long period of time.
“Dermot’s contribution goes far beyond his time as National Head Veterinarian, a role he has acted in for many years. He has been involved in the development of Irish equestrian sport and the Irish equine industry for decades, bringing an extraordinary depth of knowledge, experience and passion to everything he has undertaken.
“His appointment as Breeding Manager of the Irish Horse Board 50 years ago, in 1976, and his involvement in the introduction of the Irish Horse Register are just two examples of the lasting contribution he has made to the Irish horse industry.
“Dermot is a passionate horseman and has always brought a tremendous commitment to the welfare of the horse and to the development of our sport. His expertise has made him an invaluable resource to Horse Sport Ireland and to the Irish equestrian community.
“We are extremely grateful to Dermot for his dedication, professionalism and service over so many years. His contribution is deeply appreciated by Horse Sport Ireland.”
Horse Sport Ireland will now commence an open and competitive recruitment process to appoint a successor to the role of FEI National Head Veterinarian for Ireland.
Dr. Forde will continue to discharge the functions of the National Head Veterinarian pending completion of the recruitment process and the appointment of his successor.