Over 40 horse owners in Clondalkin launched a campaign last night to establish a local equine centre which would help to combat the problem of wandering animals.
Ms Angela Boylan, chairwoman of the newly-formed Quarryvale Horse and Pony Club, said that young horse owners found it impossible to comply with the Control of Horses Act without adequate facilities. The group called upon South Dublin County Council to provide land on which they could keep horses safely.
"There are 143 football pitches in the county area. All we want is two of them and we could do something really positive for the area," she said.
"We're dealing with children at risk here. Because of the lack of facilities in the area, it's very likely some of them will turn to such anti-social behaviour."
At least half of those at last night's launch were young horse owners. Among them was Gavin Maher (11) who said he lives in fear that his horse, Flash, which he feeds and grazes every day, will be impounded. "All we want is a bit of land to prove we can look after our own horses," he said.
Mr Larry Kelly, administrative officer at the Council's Parks Department, said it was currently working on a pilot project for urban horse owners in Fettercairn. He said, however, the council may be willing to lease land to the club if a suitable location is identified.
