Kilkenny TD welcomes grants for three organisations in Kilkenny

Three Kilkenny equestrian organisations are set to benefit from a share of the 2025 Breeding Grant Scheme.

Ballyfoyle Agricultural Show (€1,500), Hughes Horse Stud Show (€2,500) and Inistioge Show Society (€5,500) are among the 86 equestrian organisations nationwide awarded funding under the nearly €600,000 scheme announced by Minister of State Timmy Dooley, TD, in partnership with Horse Sport Ireland (HSI).

Leas Cheann Comhairle, Deputy John McGuinness, has welcomed the news and commended the work being done by local equestrian bodies, societies and show organisations.

In total, 86 initiatives will be funded this year from the increased budget of €595,820 which has risen by close to €80,000 from 2024’s total of €520,000, and will provide considerable support to the equestrian industry around the country.

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The Breeding Grant Scheme provides prize money to an array of young horse classes at shows all over the country.

The aim of the Breeding Grant initiative is to provide a pathway for breeding and production groups, societies and show associations to apply for funding for classes, production events and training bursaries designed to aid in the production of young horses through early handling, correct training and across a variety of venues nationwide.

This initiative also acts to showcase, incentivise, and reward breeders and their decision making during the breeding season while supporting and stimulating rural economies.

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