Sports Funding

Thursday, 25 September 2025

Questions (276)

John McGuinness

Question:

276. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will consider creating or extending funding streams through Sport Ireland or other sporting organisations to ensure that amateur athletes in equestrian sport can access grants when competing internationally; if he will introduce specific measures to directly support grassroots equestrian sport; if this will be considered in the context of the sports capital programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51061/25]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport (Deputy Charlie McConalogue)

Sport Ireland, which is funded by my Department, is the statutory body with responsibility for the development of sport, increasing participation at all levels and raising standards. It provides funds to Horse Sport Ireland in pursuit of the development of equestrian sport. My Department also provides capital funding through the Community Sport Facilities Fund to equestrian bodies.

I have referred the Deputy's question on whether specific measures should be provided to support grassroots equestrian sport to Sport Ireland for a direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to inform my office if a reply is not received within 10 days.