Outdoor Equestrian activities to resume next week Outdoor equestrian activities fall under the Irish government’s Roadmap for Reopening of Society and Business, Phase 1, due to commence on May 18, according to Horse Sport Ireland. Horse Sport Ireland CEO Ronan Murphy said: “I am delighted to say that following proactive engagement between Horse Sport Ireland and Sport Ireland, that Equestrian Sport has been deemed an outdoor sporting activity and as a result is permitted to reopen in Phase 1, due to commence on May 18. "This is subject to ensuring that the guidance protocols are in place and strictly adhered to by all stakeholders. It is very positive that equestrian activity, is deemed a non-contact, outdoor activity and therefore eligible to resume in Phase 1 in strict adherence with the Government guidelines.” The “Equestrian Sport Ready”, submission, provided to Government in April, includes guidance protocols, aimed at ensuring that considered protocols and procedures can be put in place to allow an incremental resumption of equestrian activity. This submission was the basis on which the Horse Sport Ireland sought the inclusion by the Government of the resumption of Equestrian Sport Phase 1 of its Roadmap. “We are encouraging everyone to take a conservative view of the Phase 1 return to ensure public safety. We are also communicating clearly that the sector must adhere to public health advice including social distancing and travel limits. The onus is on all of those involved, from participants and providers, to do everything they can to reduce risk, they must act responsibly and in line with the guidelines to protect our restart in the interest of all our stakeholders. The attention of all those in the industry must now focus on preparedness and risks assessments to ensure adherence to protocols while ensuring their insurers are satisfied with the draft protocols and risk assessments undertaken,” said Mr Murphy. “Horse Sport Ireland is strongly urging all stakeholders to be true ambassadors for their sport and strictly adhere to the Phase 1 ease of restrictions. Equestrian Sport is in the very privileged position to be allowed to resume at this early stage and this return has been based on the sport being able to demonstrate to government that it can take place in a safe, socially distant manner. The onus is on everyone throughout the Sport Horse Sector and it is in everyone’s interest that it is well observed and successful.” Horse racing behind closed doors is currently in the Government's third phase of the the roadmap scheduled to begin on June 29. Horse Racing Ireland, which represents the industry, is currently lobbying the Government to allow the sport to resume at an earlier date.
