628. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the funding streams available through his Department for agricultural shows or gymkhanas or other equine events; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48756/26]

I provide funding for various initiatives under National Breeding Services (NBS) which is delivered under contract to my Department by Horse Sport Ireland (HSI).

The NBS provides supports to the sport horse sector for the breeding and production side of the sector. One of the initiatives under this Scheme is the 'Breeding Grant' which is specifically available for equine events and provides funding for breeding and production initiatives for young horse classes and production events.

Details of the initiative can be found on the following link: www.horsesportireland.ie/breeding-grant-2026-now-open-for-applications/. In 2026, a total of 71 equine shows and events will receive funding from the €600,000 budget.

I also provide funding to the Irish Shows Association. In 2025, this funding totalled €82,500.