THERE is no restriction on the movement of horses within Ireland and no plans to do so at this stage of the Covid-19 outbreak, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) have confirmed.

As the country moves into a busy foaling and covering season, the news will come as a relief to many breeders across the country.

Asked if Horse Sport Ireland are in contact with the DAFM to to ensure these essential services continue, a spokesperson said: “Horse Sport Ireland are in constant contact with the Department of Agriculture and have over the past number of days, stressed the necessity to keep the movement of horses within the country open.

“The Department have confirmed that there is no restriction on the movement of horses currently and that there are no plans to restrict horse/animal movement within Ireland at this time which is positive for all involved.

“HSI have asked that should the national restriction levels change, that increased people protocols should be examined to continue to allow the movement of horses and in particular in-foal mares for foaling, as this is a welfare-based requirement. Finally, if equine movement restrictions need to be introduced at some stage in the future, that people are given as much advance notice as possible to prepare.

“Both the sport horse and thoroughbred industries are united in their aim to keep the movement of horses and mares open during this period and we remain confident that by working together we can overcome the current challenges,” Horse Sport Ireland added.

Breeders are advised to adhere to the HSE guidelines in terms of hand hygiene and social distancing, as well as putting strict protocols in place to ensure their own safety and that of others.