Allister speaks up for equine industry
06 April 2007
Commenting on the recently published “Strategy for the Equine Industry in Northern Ireland”, Jim Allister MEP said:-
“As a document drawing together in a coordinated way the issues which need to be addressed, and giving an historic context, this is a valuable production. However, the real challenge is in taking forward the issues identified. We can’t afford to have another report merely gathering dust on a DARD shelf, as has happened with previous equine reports in the past.
The equine industry is growing and making an increasing contribution, with an annual spend of over £110M and over 5000 jobs. It holds key export potential in regard to top class horses. To fully exploit this potential fundamental issues like classification of horses as agricultural animals, zero-rating for VAT and developing quality breeding programmes, must be addressed. Moreover, Northern Ireland has the quality of animal and expertise to stand on its own feet and should not just think in terms of merely operating in the shadow of the Republic. Rather, the disadvantages such as arise in the rating and vat regime to which we are subjected, must be addressed. This could particularly expand and promote the thoroughbred sector.
To enhance the opportunity to host world-class events and to retain local talent, both in the riding and handling of horses, investment in world-class facilities is essential.
I, therefore, welcome this report and trust its many valuable suggestions will be robustly taken forward.”
