Minister Martin Heydon praises the work of those involved in the Thoroughbred Country Destination Experience Development Plan focused on counties Kildare and Tipperary.
Plans to further develop the tourism experience around Ireland’s world class reputation in the equestrian and thoroughbred sectors will create major opportunities for Kildare, according to Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture and Kildare South TD Martin Heydon.
Minister Heydon was speaking following the launch of the Thoroughbred Country Destination Experience Development Plan (TCDEDP) which took place at the Irish National Stud, Tully, Co. Kildare on Wednesday afternoon.
The five-year plan aims to realise the domestic and international tourism opportunity that can be delivered through the heritage of the thoroughbred leading to increased visitor numbers and revenue to both Kildare and Tipperary.
“I want to commend the work of Fáilte Ireland in developing this plan in collaboration with Kildare and Tipperary County Councils, and the Thoroughbred Country Steering Group which includes representatives from across the equine and tourism sector.
“Development of the International Thoroughbred Trial can help unlock an experience for visitors that is unique to this region. It was inspiring to see the passion of those involved at the launch of this plan and I believe it will bring major economic and social benefits to Kildare, Tipperary and surrounding areas.
“The region has a long and proud history with the thoroughbred. Opening a window to showcase the people involved in this sector, the heritage and the horse through tours of stud farms and trainers’ yards to farriers training schools and behind the scenes of the racecourse is a welcome move.”
“The TCDEDP will build upon the top-class experiences already present in the region with newer ones set to be available from 2022 and right out to 2024. I will be working to play my part in ensuring Kildare becomes the world’s best thoroughbred visitor destination.”