HORSE Sport Ireland (HSI) launched its new Strategic Plan 2030 at the Sport Ireland Conference Centre in Dublin this week, outlining its vision for the future of Ireland’s equestrian sector. The strategy sets out a roadmap for the development of Irish equestrian sport and breeding through to 2030.

Developed through an extensive consultation process, the plan reflects input provided from more than 550 individuals, 27 affiliate organisations and a wide range of stakeholders from across the sector.

The strategy includes a vision for HSI to lead “a modern, innovative and welfare-centred equestrian sector, integrating grassroots participation, breeding and high-performance sport, with recognised international impact.”

The strategy document details how the sport horse sector plays a major role in the national economy and rural Ireland, contributing approximately €1bn annually and supporting over 14,000 jobs nationwide. The Strategic Plan identifies five core priorities that will guide HSI’s work over the coming years:

Minister for Sport, Charlie McConalogue TD, attended the launch and described Strategy 2030 as “an important milestone for Horse Sport Ireland” saying: “This plan provides a clear framework leading up to the LA Olympic Games in 2028 and Brisbane in 2032, as it supports the development of the next generation of athletes.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to launch this plan, and my Department and Sport Ireland look forward to working with Horse Sport Ireland to deliver further success for Ireland in the competition arena.”

Speaking at the launch, Horse Sport Ireland Chair Dr Pamela Byrne said the strategy represents a significant milestone for the organisation and the wider sector.

“Strategy 2030 aims for Horse Sport Ireland to lead a modern, innovative, and welfare-centred equestrian sector, integrating grassroots participation, breeding, and high-performance sport, with recognised international impact.

“This strategy is not just a plan; it is an invitation to our affiliates, and a commitment by HSI, to work together in a more collaborative, more open and a more united way.

“Within the strategy, we look at ourselves internally and how we can improve the services we deliver, better support our athletes and horses, as well as prepare for technical modernisation.”

HSI Chief Executive Denis Duggan said: “This plan is not the conclusion of a process; it is the beginning of a new collective commitment between Horse Sport Ireland and the sport horse sector.”

The strategy also places significant emphasis on welfare, environmental responsibility, safeguarding and governance, with Horse Sport Ireland reaffirming that horse welfare and participant safeguarding are “non-negotiable” across all activities.

To read more about the strategy visit www.horsesportireland.ie.