A comprehensive review of Northern Ireland’s equine industry is
being carried out to assess its value to the economy and identify
areas of potential growth.
The review, commissioned by the Department of Agriculture,
Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and being independently
undertaken by Deloitte Consulting, will include the equine
sectors of sport (racing and competition), leisure, breeding and
the ancillary sectors that provide services to the Northern
Ireland equine industry.
DAERA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Robert Huey, said: “We hope
this independent evaluation will provide the industry with
recommendations on how to improve, develop and grow to deliver
both economic and social benefits for everyone.
“The analysis will be seeking to identify additional enterprise,
employment and export opportunities in the sector, as well as
reviewing how education, innovation and technology can help drive
economic growth.
“The last survey of the industry was in 2007, so we have no
up-to-date figures on the number of horses we have in NI, how
much consumers spend on them, or details on exports or incomes
from the industry. Therefore, I would encourage everyone in
Northern Ireland involved in the equine sector to participate in
the analysis. Whether you are a competitor or leisure rider; an
owner, breeder or trainer; participate in a riding club, pony
club or riding school; are involved in racing or sport horses; or
provide services such as being a farrier, tack shop, feed
supplier or veterinarian; this is your opportunity to help inform
the review and I would encourage you to ensure your views are
heard by completing the online survey which is open until 30
September."
The survey can be accessed via the Quick Links section on the
Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs
homepage: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk
It is hoped the review will be completed by the end of 2018.
