TD for Dublin Mid-West Mark Ward has described the news that the Clondalkin Equine Club is in imminent danger of closing as a body blow to the community. The Clondalkin Equine Club was set up in 2017 to promote good animal welfare practice and engaging with marginalised young people in Dublin 22. Teachta Ward said: “It is very disheartening to hear that the Clondalkin Equine Club is in danger of closing. “This is the only purpose-built club of its kind nationally and it is now facing an uncertain future “The club is like an oasis of tranquillity and community engagement in Clondalkin
“I have been raising this issue directly with South Dublin County Council and with the Minister for Agriculture for some time now. The Clondalkin Equine Club is in danger of closing in the next three months if a funding stream is not identified. “The Equine Club offers a livery service to horses owned by children in the Clondalkin and Lucan South area, continuing the tradition of urban horse ownership in the locality. “I am appealing to the Government in partnership with South Dublin County Council to provide core funding
“The club is also appealing to the private sector to assist with funding to save this unique service and to increase the capacity of the board of management. “The Equine Club provides a service that could be core funded through many Government departments, like Agriculture, Community Development , Education, Justice, Children, Sport, and local Government. “It is probably a victim of its own success and is falling between the stools of different departments. We need to see a cross departmental approach to assist this club to remain open.
“The Equine Club is much more than just a place to keep your horse. It was opened in 2017 and provides a supportive and holistic environment for children and their families to give them a sense of belonging within their community. “It also stables 20 horses in a disadvantaged area.
