HORSE Sport Ireland this morning announced three Irish appointments to the International Equestrian Federation (FEI).

Gillian Kyle has been appointed FEI Eventing Steward General (IRL), Gerry McCloskey has been appointed FEI Jumping Steward General (IRL), while Dermot Forde has been reappointed as FEI National Head Veterinarian (IRL).

Gillian Kyle and Gerry McCloskey’s responsibilities in their respective disciplines will include stewarding at international events within Ireland, acting as the contact person between the National Federation (NF) and the FEI Honorary Steward General, advising the NF on all matters relating to their responsibility and inform the organising committees of international events in their country of their responsibilities relating to stewarding and stable security under their jurisdiction.

Speaking about her appointment as FEI Eventing Steward General (IRL), Gillian Kyle said: “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to represent Ireland as FEI Steward General. The plan will be to develop the number of FEI stewards from our numbers and ensure their continued development and education for the good of our sport.”

FEI Jumping Steward General (IRL) appointment, Gerry McCloskey said: “I am very honoured to be appointed as the FEI Jumping Steward General for Ireland. I am very much looking forward to working with the FEI and IRL stewards in the future both at home and abroad.”

Dermot Forde has been reappointed FEI National Head Veterinarian (IRL) for another term. The function of National Head Veterinarian (NHV) is to maintain effective communication with the FEI veterinary department on veterinary-related matters within their country.

Speaking after his reappointment, Dermot Forde said: "I’m honoured to be reappointed as FEI National Head Veterinarian for Ireland. There are many challenges ahead, not least the advent of Brexit and its potential effect on the international movement of horses. There have also been massive changes in the rules and regulations of the FEI. These need to be addressed with care and attention.”