Horse Sport Ireland has announced the allocation of almost €600,000 to 86 equestrian bodies, societies, and show organizations in Ireland as part of the 2025 Breeding Grant Scheme, funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Five organizations in Co Clare received a total of €30,500 from the scheme, with Banner Equestrian Centre receiving €1,200 and The North West Clare Agricultural Show awarded €800.
Minister Timmy Dooley TD, along with HSI Chief Executive Denis Duggan and Head of Breeding, Innovation, and Development Dr. Sonja Egan, announced the allocation of funds to this year’s recipients in Banner Equestrian Centre, Ennis. The Kildysart Show Society received €4,000, the Scarriff Show was issued €4,500, and the Clarecastle Show Society was granted an impressive €20,000. These funds will provide significant support to the equestrian industry in Clare and will also provide prizemoney for young horse classes at shows nationwide.
Denis Duggan, Chief Executive of Horse Sport Ireland, expressed delight at the support from Minister Timmy Dooley TD for the Breeding Grant Scheme beneficiaries. The scheme received over 100 applicants in 2025, with 86 shows ultimately receiving funding from DAFM. The funding plays a crucial role in supporting the breeding and production of the next generation of Irish horses by providing opportunities for breeders and producers of young horses at rural shows.
