Niall O’ Connor

Intent: 1) Provided an update on improvements in HSI horse passporting and registration since 2024. ::2) Highlighted Prof Wall report, horse welfare issues and need for action. ::3) Outlined success of National Breeding Services. ::4) Highlighted high performance programme - successes and gaps. ::5) Explained challenges for the sport horse sector - US tariffs, succession planning, employment permits, skills gaps etc. ::6) Provided breakdown of HSI structure and funding. ::7) Highlighted challenges facing riding centres around the costs of commercial rates and insurance.

Details: Issues and challenges facing sport horse sector

Intent: 1) Highlighting the importance of the sport horse sector and trade with the US. ::2) Requesting that sport horses be included in any EU exemption, as proposed for the thoroughbred sector.

Details: US tarriffs impact of sport horse sector.