merrion street

Mr. Brian Hayes, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW),was in Fettercairn, Tallaght this morning to handover ‘Fabian’, an Irish Draught horse to Fettercairn Youth Horse Project.

Speaking at the event in Fettercairn, which was attended by students from St Anne’s Primary School, Minister Hayes stated, “Fabian is an Irish Draught Horse, which is a traditional Irish Breed. He is 7 years old and has spent the last number of years on the Farmleigh Estate in the Phoenix Park. In fact during last year’s Royal visit both the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh were particularly complementary of Fabian during their stay in Farmleigh.”

Minister Hayes continued, “A number of weeks ago, I was informed by OPW staff in Farmleigh that Fabian would benefit greatly from increased handling and daily contact with professional horse trainers. On that basis I suggested that Fabian should go to a community facility that would be of benefit to many people. I am very much aware of the excellent work done here in Fettercairn by Laurence and his team and also of its contribution to the Fettercairn Community.”

Minister Hayes concluded, “I am delighted to be here today to officially hand over the reigns of Fabian from the OPW to Fettercairn Youth Horse Project. I know that his presence in the centre will be of great benefit to the community and hope that many will get the opportunity to see him in future events representing Fettercairn.”

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For further information or if you wish to interview Minister of State Hayes please contact Neil Ryan, OPW Press Officer at 046 9426128 or 087 9475552 or neil.ryan@opw.ie

Note for Editors:-

The Fettercairn Youth Horse Project is a community owned/based multifunctional centre and was established in 1996. It comprises a 20-stable American Barn with an Olympic size outdoor sand exercise arena, a Training/Lecture room, a Tack room, Feed room and a controlled, safe grazing area for the horses. The equestrian facility, which is approved by A.I.R.E. (Association of Irish Riding Establishments) and the BHS (British Horse Society), commenced operations in 2000.

The OPW has arranged to lease Fabian to the Fettercairm Youth Horse Project in Tallaght until he retires. Fabian is one of 5 Draught Horses that were bred at the Farmleigh Estate. There is a wide range of animals housed within the Farmleigh Estate, which are an added attraction for the many thousands of visitors who flock to this OPW site each year.