HIVE Insurance, a company specialising in equestrian cover and that is currently sponsoring multiple events in Ireland in all equestrian disciplines, has introduced a new Rider and Stable Staff Accident Plan, which is designed for individuals working in the equine industry.

Rob McOwan of Hive Insurance acknowledged the challenges facing equestrian businesses and said that the new initiative, which was only officially launched this week following lots of behind the scenes work with AIRE and SJI, is to help businesses on the ground.

“Premiums are rocketing and sadly lots of well-established family-run equestrian centres that have been there for decades can’t reopen. This is a pretty straightforward and simple initiative, and we are finding that lots of riding schools are making it mandatory. Lots have embraced it, saying if you want to ride or have livery here, you need to take out personal accident cover,” McOwan said.

Hive Insurance has partnered with the Irish Stable Staff Association (ISSA) for a new financial protection programme for all stable staff.

“We also cover yard insurance, individual accident cover, private horse, everything equestrian, not only individuals. We are working with AIRE, SJI, and in talks with HSI and the ISSA to try and really push forward with this whole industry initiative. Prices for the rider plans range from €5 a month up to €20 a month.’’