It’s been a while since I last wrote for our beloved Grassroots Gazette, but this morning I woke up with a thought that I couldn’t ignore. With a general election just around the corner, I started thinking about the impact the choices we make will have on our industry. So, I felt it was time to return to the keyboard and encourage all of us to make an informed decision that could shape the future of the equine world.

As Ireland’s general election approaches, it’s essential that each of us takes a moment to consider who we are electing to represent us, our communities, and the industries that are at the heart of our economy and heritage. For those of us in the equine industry, the stakes feel especially high. We’re not just choosing leaders; we’re choosing advocates for the rural economy, supporters of equine welfare, and champions of policies that will impact our livelihoods.

It’s understandable if you feel distant from politics or unsure about who to support. Many of us aren’t deeply versed in the political landscape, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, now is the time to ask ourselves: who will genuinely look out for our industry, and who has a clear vision for its future?

The equine industry in Ireland is a global symbol of excellence, yet we face ongoing challenges—rising costs, regulatory pressures, and infrastructure needs, to name a few. We need representatives who understand these issues and are committed to addressing them.

Will the candidates prioritise rural funding? Will they invest in sustainable practices that benefit both horse and rider? Will they ensure our industry can thrive?

I’ll admit, I’m not in a position right now to make an informed decision on who to vote for. But as the election approaches, I’m realizing that it’s crucial to take these next few weeks to learn more about the candidates and what they stand for, particularly when it comes to supporting the equine industry.

This is a question we all need to answer for ourselves, or we risk ending up with leaders whose decisions don’t align with our needs and values. If we play a part in deciding who’s put in place, we’ll feel less powerless about the choices they make on our behalf.

We may not always make the perfect choice when it comes to our selections, but at least we’ll have made an effort to protect our industry and secure a future for the generations to come.