Horse Sport Ireland – Coronavirus update

Horse Sport Ireland continues to closely monitor the Coronavirus outbreak and the advice from the National Public Health Emergency Team and the HSE.

While the business of equine farming, horse production and training continues, the primary concern is for the health and safety of the public and the equestrian community.

Horse Sport Ireland are determined to be calm, calculated and proactive regarding precautions to limit the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

As announced by An Taoiseach this morning, the following measures will come into effect until the 29th March, 2020.

* Schools, colleges and childcare facilities will close from today (Friday)

* Where it is possible to work remotely people should do so. Public transport will continue and shops will continue to remain open. Mr Varadkar said we need the public and businesses to take a sensible approach.

* Indoor mass gatherings of 100 people or more and outdoor mass gatherings of more than 500 people should be cancelled

In respect of “mass gatherings”, Horse Sport Ireland is recommending that all competitions, training and other events that exceed the government stated limits should be postponed during this period. Horse Sport Ireland strongly endorse the position that any events that do proceed should be held behind closed doors.

This advice will continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis between now and the end of this month.

Please be aware that while Horse Sport Ireland remains fully operational, our staff will be working remotely where possible during this period and Horse Sport Ireland are requesting that visits by the public to the Horse Sport Ireland offices should be avoided.

For all Passport and Registration enquires visit the HSI website.

All other enquiries to Horse Sport Ireland should be directed preferably through email [email protected] or by phone to (+353 (0)45 850800) or by post.

Horse Sport Ireland are in constant contact with key partners such as Sport Ireland and the FEI to monitor the situation both in Ireland and globally in relation to the current Coronavirus outbreak.

Furthermore, Horse Sport Ireland are following recommendations and guidance issued by the Health Service Executive, the WHO and government officials. Horse Sport Ireland urge all stakeholders to follow Government advices and information, which are regularly updated on Gov.ie and the Horse Sport Ireland website.

TRAVEL ADVICE

For those with travel concerns, there is specific advice available on Gov.ie.

The government published their action plan on 11 March, which outlines the measures in force to contain the spread of the virus.

Further updates followed on 12 March.

Horse Sport Ireland would strongly recommend everyone in the equestrian community to follow the official guidance on how to avoid catching or spreading the virus to help in the containment process.

IRISH ATHLETES ABROAD

For Ireland athletes currently abroad, please contact the Organising Committee in the member state where you intend competing to check if the event will proceed and also to check official government websites within that member state for up to date guidance. Athletes are highly recommended to review their travel plans and final destinations if travelling across the continent as the situation in each member state is evolving rapidly. Horse Sport Ireland will assist athletes to withdraw from events and/or redirect to other events where available.

Dressage Ireland Winter Finals 2020

Statement from Dressage Ireland chair Marguerite Kavanagh: “In response to the latest Government advice regarding the coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19) Dressage Ireland are regrettably taking the decision to cancel the 2020 Winter Finals due to be held at Cavan Equestrian Centre on the 4th and 5th of April. Refunds will be issued in due course.

“In light of today’s announcement by An Taoiseach Leo Veradkar, some Dressage Ireland Regions have opted to postpone shows scheduled for this weekend. Further updates on regional shows will be posted as the situation evolves. Thank you for your co-operation.”