TWO members of the European Parliament visited Coolmore Stud last Tuesday, following an invitation extended by Joe Hernon and Des Leadon of the European Federation of Thoroughbred Breeders Associations.

Hilde Vautmans MEP is the chairperson of the Horse Group in the EU Parliament and Benoit Cassart is also a member and in charge of the Animal Transport dossier.

The EU is proposing to introduce legislation which would place restrictions on the international movement of pregnant and new-born animals.

These laws would have serious consequences for the bloodstock industry if implemented.

Over the past four years, the EFTBA has been lobbying to have the proposals amended to allow for the continued safe movement of mares and foals.

EFTBA chairman Joe Hernon said: “This was a great opportunity for Des and I to highlight the problems facing our industry if the new transport rules are not modified to include our animals in a derogation as the high health animals in our racing and sporting disciplines are.

“We presented a fact sheet and discussed the issues and presented solutions that were well understood and accepted.

“Hilde was then shown a standard horsebox used for international travel. She had a tour of Coolmore Stud and inspected the stallions. We showcased the Irish breeding industry to people who are horse people and have a big influence.

“I would like to thank Nina Carbery MEP who initiated the visit.”