689 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he has investigated the possibility of attracting the World Equestrian Games to Ireland; the impact this would have; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48597/09]

Responsibility for applying to host the World Equestrian Games rests with the relevant national governing body, in this case Horse Sport Ireland (HSI).

In this regard, consideration was given by HSI in 2008 to making an application to host the 2014 World Equestrian Games. However, I am informed by HSI that, following consideration of the matter at board level, they decided not to proceed with the bid.