Introduction: A Crisis of Confidence

In what can only be described as a dramatic repudiation of Horse Sport Ireland’s (HSI) recent governance changes, more than 30 industry heavyweights gathered this Wednesday at the Royal Dublin Society. This unprecedented meeting, marked by an atmosphere of urgency, anger and frustration, was not merely a routine gathering but a powerful demonstration of a sector pushed to its limits by new changes to HSI’s constitution and by a clear lack of engagement with Affiliates by the Ireland’s governing body.

Unprecedented Demands for Change

The collective voice of the affiliates was loud and clear: HSI’s leadership and governance structures are no longer fit for purpose and require comprehensive restructuring. The affiliates’ discussion centred on the severe disconnect between HSI’s executive actions and the needs of the grassroots and broader equestrian community. This was not a mere suggestion for minor tweaks but a call for sweeping reforms to realign HSI with its foundational mission.

Specific Grievances Aired

Central to the affiliates’ grievances are the recent constitutional changes by HSI, which they argue have significantly diluted their influence and marginalised grassroots perspectives. The joint statement from the meeting highlighted, “The significant modifications to the role of affiliates in the new Constitution have direct implications on the representation of the grassroots of the industry. These changes will affect how the grassroots perspective is incorporated into the governance and the strategic decision-making processes of HSI and will ultimately impact on how it serves the industry.”

Moreover, the removal of structured councils, replaced by less formal ‘Advisory Forums,’ was met with particular disdain. Stakeholders argue that this shift appears to reduce direct affiliate input in decision-making, contrary to HSI’s assertions of increased inclusivity. “The notion that there is a united front is a myth,” stated HSI CEO Denis Duggan, in stark contrast to the palpable unity displayed at the meeting.

The Vision for a New Governance Structure

The affiliates proposed a radical redesign of HSI’s governance structure. They envision an organisation where “a Board of Directors largely populated by representatives of the Affiliate organisations” would ensure that the entity remains truly accountable to those it serves. The new structure would also mandate annual general meetings where HSI’s executive and board would directly report to and be answerable to the affiliates.

Government’s Role and Next Steps

Recognising the importance of governmental oversight due to the substantial public funding HSI receives, the stakeholders agreed that the Ministries for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, along with the Northern Ireland Sports Forum, should have representation on the board. They plan to escalate these issues directly to Ministers Charlie McConalogue, Catherine Martin, and Thomas Byrne, seeking their intervention to rectify what many see as a governance crisis.

HSI’s Response and the Path Forward

In response to these significant outcries, HSI maintains that their processes have been inclusive and transparent. Denis Duggan, HSI’s CEO, defended the new structures, claiming wide consultation and engagement. However, this stance seems increasingly disconnected from the reality expressed by the affiliates, whose actions suggest a profound distrust and dissatisfaction with the current leadership.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Irish Equestrian Sports

The meeting at the RDS may well be remembered as a defining moment in the history of Irish equestrian sports. It underscores not just a desire but a critical need for substantive change at Horse Sport Ireland. The strong, united stance of over 30 affiliates sends a clear message: HSI must adapt and reform, or it risks losing all confidence and support of the very community it purports to serve. Is this breaking point?

As this situation unfolds, the entire Irish equestrian community watches keenly, hoping for a resolution that brings HSI back to its core mission of supporting and advancing the sport in true partnership with its stakeholders or the building of a viable alternative that delivers true representation for Grassroots Equestrians and Affiliates.