MORE and more, we are hearing from Irish equestrian businesses under strain from the crippling cost of insurance. The fact is that obtaining affordable insurance cover itself has become a real liability today for many in our sector.

Everything from equestrian centres, riding schools, trekking centres, hunting, and stud farms are under the gun when it comes to obtaining affordable insurance.

From the bigger year-round operators to those who only open their trekking services for a few brief months in the peak summer season, insurance is the one common word on their lips.

One strong operator in Leinster told how his insurance premium went up 95% on the eve of its renewal! And this is a business with zero public road involved – all the outings take place over their own family land.

Over in the west, we hear this week how rising insurance is now threatening to put an end to a summer trekking business in one of our most scenic locations.

Added to that, we heard yesterday that Irish stud farms are now being ‘advised’ to carry €10 million liability cover.

Losing freedom and jobs

Where is this all going to end?

Loss of business, loss of freedom, loss of country pursuits, loss of jobs is where it is heading.

Insurance reform is long promised and is constantly lobbied for by proactive groups, every politician seems to agree something must be done.

It can’t gallop home quick enough for all in the Irish equine sector at this point.