A SEMINAR focused on succession planning for equine enterprises will take place on Wednesday morning April 15th at the Thrive Centre of Business Excellence in Navan. The event is designed for those working within Ireland’s horse sport, breeding, training, and racing sectors, which collectively represent a major national asset.

Ireland’s equine industry plays a central role in rural enterprise and international competitiveness. The sport horse sector contributes over €1 billion annually, while the thoroughbred breeding and racing industry generates €2.46 billion in direct and stimulated expenditure. Together, these sectors support tens of thousands of livelihoods, with the sport horse industry alone supporting 47,000 jobs directly and indirectly. The 2025 Equine Census highlights that 88% of the country’s 22,593 active equine premises keep ten horses or fewer, illustrating the predominance of family run operations.

Speaking ahead of the event, Denis Duggan, the chief executive of Horse Sport Ireland, noted that: “the sport horse and racing industries depend heavily on family run enterprises, many of which have operated for generations. With most equine premises in Ireland keeping ten horses or fewer, the need for strong succession planning has never been more important. This seminar aims to equip business owners with the tools needed to protect their operations and ensure long-term stability.”

Kieran Kehoe, Chief Executive of Meath County Council, added that “equine enterprises are at the heart of Meath’s rural economy and Ireland’s global equestrian reputation. The significant economic contribution of the sport horse and thoroughbred racing sectors shows just how vital these businesses are. Supporting sustainable, well-planned generational transition is critical to maintaining that strength into the future.”

The seminar will deliver practical guidance on developing clear succession strategies, financial and tax considerations, preparing for transfer or sale, and avoiding common risks in family run yards and equine enterprises.

Expert speakers include JJ O’Connell (Family Business Ireland), Stephen Gahan (Forvis Mazars), Brian Mangan (FEI Honorary Board Member), Clare O’Keeffe (Succession Ireland) and Dr Sonja Egan, Head of Breeding, Innovation and Development with Horse Sport Ireland.

The event is free, but attendees should register at www.localenterprise.ie/meath/training-events.