Kildare County Council will host the Equine Summit at the Curragh Racecourse on March 5, 2026, focusing on careers, innovation, and skills in Ireland's equine industry. The event aims to connect leaders from equine, education, and enterprise sectors to explore opportunities for youth and sustainability. Keynote speakers include government ministers and an MEP, with discussions moderated by a prominent industry figure.
On Thursday, March 5, 2026, Kildare County Council will organize the Equine Summit at the renowned Curragh Racecourse. This free event seeks to highlight career pathways, youth engagement, innovation, and sustainability in Ireland's equine sector, which generates an estimated €3.4 billion annually and supports around 75,000 jobs nationwide. Kildare, known as the heart of the country's thoroughbred and sport horse industry, serves as an ideal location for the summit, underscoring the county's role in breeding, training, and equestrian services.
The summit will feature keynote speeches from key figures: Martin Heydon TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine; James Lawless TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science; and Nina Carbery, Member of the European Parliament. Panel discussions and interactive sessions will cover topics such as education in the equine field, skill development for young people, sector innovation, and collaboration to build the future workforce.
Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive of Kildare County Council, emphasized the industry's economic importance: “The Equine Industry is a vital part of Ireland’s prosperity, generating an estimated €3.4 billion each year and sustaining 75,000 jobs nationwide. Here in Kildare, the industry’s influence is especially felt, with the county serving as a central hub for breeding, training, and equestrian services, supporting local growth and community well-being.”
Councillor Carmel Kelly, Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, added: “The Equine Industry is integral to Ireland's heritage, economy, and reputation worldwide. From breeding and racing to education, research, and tourism, the sector offers rewarding careers and shapes the cultural identity of Ireland and Kildare alike.”
Brendan McArdle, Advertising Sales and Marketing Manager at The Irish Field and a well-known RTÉ commentator on showjumping and horseracing, will moderate the proceedings. Full details and registration are available through the Local Enterprise Office Kildare website.
