asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to reports that the Army equestrian team are using the Phoenix Park for training purposes despite the present ban on such activities and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Two minor infringements of the prohibition on the entry and exercising of horses in the Phoenix Park occurred in January last when a small number of Army horses were ridden on the roads of the Park. The personnel concerned were under the impression that the prohibition, which had been in force since August 1979, was no longer in force.

Instructions were re-issued in January 1980 by the Army Equitation School that the prohibition should be continued until it has been revoked by the Office of Public Works.

Could the Minister tell us when he expects the prohibition order to be lifted on the use of the grounds for equestrian purposes?

I understand that it will probably continue until May at least.

Has the Minister issued instructions to the Army Equestrian Centre that they cannot use the grounds until that time?

The Deputy is aware that these were very minor infringements. As I pointed out in my reply, the Army are instructed not to use the grounds.