COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

south dublin county council crest

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

MOTION NO. 12

MOTION: Councillor G. Kenny

That this area Committee looks at the possibilty of supporting a pilot horse project in the Clondalkin/ Clonburris area.

REPORT:

The Control of Horses Act 1995 made it necessary to have a licence and be over the age of 18 in order to keep a horse. A condition of the licence stipulates that the owner must prove that he/she has access to sufficient land and can house the animal properly.

This Act was introduced to control the growing problem of the number of horses being kept in housing estates and on Public Lands.

As part of a response to this problem South Dublin County Council provided, on a pilot basis, land and financial assistance to an existing organized group in Tallaght. The Fettercairn Youth Horse Project was primarily funded by the Department of Agriculture for the purpose of erecting stables and ancillary facilities. The Project provides organized, supervised lessons in the proper care and management of horses as well as training in riding skills etc.

Young  People from the Clondalkin Area are currently availing of equine training at Fettercairn Youth Horse Project, facilitated by Ronanstown Youth Services. They also have access to the Cherry Orchard Horse Project.

In view of current financial position and bearing in mind that it is likely that there will continue to be significant reductions in revenue and capital budgets, it is unlikely that the Council will be in a position to  advance such a Project.

It is noted that:-

1)   There is currently stabling available at the Fettercairn Horse Project for up to six suitable horses and enquiries may be made directly to the Project;

2)    A detailed report on the organization, management and funding of the Fettercairn Youth Horse Project was provided for the Clondalkin Area Committee last year.  The Council can arrange a visit for any of the  Elected Representatives that are interested in visiting the Fettercairn Youth Horse Project.