Minister Lawless highlights skills, training and Erasmus+ collaboration at inaugural Equine Summit at The Curragh Racecourse in Kildare
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From: Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science
- Published on: 6 March 2026
- Last updated on: 6 March 2026
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and TD for Kildare North, James Lawless attended the inaugural Equine Summit at The Curragh Racecourse, Co. Kildare, where he underlined the critical importance of education, training and international collaboration in securing the future of Ireland’s equine sector.
The summit, themed “Pathways & Possibilities: Careers in the Irish Equine Sector”, brought together industry leaders, employers, educators, policymakers and innovators for a full day of discussion focused on skills needs, workforce development, and emerging opportunities across the industry.
A central focus of the event was Ireland’s participation in the Young Equine Innovators (YEI) project under Erasmus+, which supports young people across Europe in developing entrepreneurial, digital and sustainability skills within the equine sector.
The €250,000 Erasmus+ initiative promotes cross-border collaboration and lifelong learning, equipping young people with practical tools to innovate and adapt in a rapidly evolving industry. Through open-access learning modules, digital resources and international networking opportunities, YEI is helping to modernise skills pathways and strengthen connections between education providers and employers.
Speaking at the summit, Minister Lawless said: “The long-term success of Ireland’s equine sector depends not only on tradition and excellence, but on investment in people, skills and innovation. Through Erasmus+ and initiatives like Young Equine Innovators, we are supporting young people to develop the entrepreneurial, digital and sustainability skills that will shape the future of this industry.
"I am proud that my Department is supporting the Farrier Apprenticeship Programme with Kildare Wicklow ETB and Farriery Ireland. One of the most enduring crafts in Ireland’s equine world is that of the farrier - a skill passed down through generations, rooted in tradition yet constantly adapting to the needs of a modern industry. I am always proud to say that this craft is not only alive but thriving.
“Today’s summit demonstrates the power of collaboration between education, enterprise and international partners in building clear training pathways and expanding opportunities for the next generation.”
Minister Lawless also formally launched the Equine Career Guidebook, an industry resource designed to complement education and training pathways by outlining routes into employment and enterprise across the sector.
The Equine Summit marks a significant step in aligning education policy, industry needs and European collaboration to ensure Ireland remains a global leader in equine excellence.
NOTES
Equine Career Guidebook
This guidebook was commissioned by Kildare County Council and produced by IFAC. The Equine Career Guidebook serves as an accessible roadmap for young people seeking sustainable careers in the equine sector.
This guide is designed to provide a clear, practical overview of career and business pathways across Ireland’s equine sector. It outlines key industry areas, explains role types and required skills, and highlights training, education, and enterprise supports.
Each section provides clear, practical information to help explore options, identify pathways, and plan next steps.
The Equine Summit
The Equine Summit at the Curragh Racecourse, is the inaugural national gathering dedicated to showcasing “Pathways & Possibilities: Careers in the Irish Equine Sector.”
The event is organised by Kildare County Council in partnership with the Erasmus+ Young Equine Innovators (YEI) project, the summit brings together industry leaders, educators, policymakers, employers, and international experts for a full day of panels, networking, and skills exploration.
Young Equine Innovators (YEI)
The Young Equine Innovators (YEI) project is a €250,000 Erasmus+ funded initiative designed to empower young people across Europe by promoting innovation, digital skills, sustainability, and entrepreneurship within the equine sector.
Led by an Icelandic university with partners in Ireland, Sweden and Denmark, the project delivers a suite of resources including an Equine Career & Innovation Guidebook, open access educational modules, and a digital platform to support cross border collaboration and lifelong learning.
YEI will culminate in a carbon neutral international summit, showcasing youth driven ideas for the future of the equine industry.
Useful links
Equine Summit 2026 - Kildare County Council
IFAC - Accounting & Financial Advisors for Farmers and Businesses
Young Equine Innovators