Month: April 2017

Ireland is full of small scale breeding enthusiasts. With a handful or mares, or perhaps even just one (like myself) such breeders are often driven by lofty dreams and a deep-seated love of their horses. We spoke to one such breeder – John Gavin of Holywell horses – whose ‘breeding operation’ is based at the […]

On 26th April 2017 in Mallow District Court, Cornelus Guiney with an address at Rockchapel, North Cork, pleaded guilty on two summons for causing unnecessary suffering to a mare caused by a rope embedded in her nose. The case related to a visit made by ISPCA Senior Inspector Lisa O’Donovan to the defendant’s property on […]

Following on from our previous interview with renowned Showjumping producer Barry O’Connor where we discussed the state of the equestrian industry and what needs to be done to make it stronger, we went on to chat with Barry about his thoughts on breeding horses in Ireland. Do you think it’s economical for small scale breeders […]

Where did March go? I can’t believe that it’s nearly 6 weeks since I last blogged and a lot has happened…the eventing season is truly in full swing. Having navigated some dressage tests and rounds of jumping at Coilog in less than ideal weather, it was time to go cross country schooling in March. Eventing […]

While the name Barry O’Connor would raise blank faces among the general public and may even ring few bells among the broad equestrian population, for those in the know in Showjumping in Ireland (and it would have to be said, globally), the name Barry O’Connor is well known and very well respected. Based between his […]

On 11th April 2017 in Bray District Court, Michael Connolly admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a horse on lands beside Tinakilly House, Rathnew, Co. Wicklow. He was ordered to pay €1,000 in costs and a €2,000 donation to the ISPCA. The court heard that, on 23rd April 2015, ISPCA Chief Inspector Conor Dowling made a […]