HORSES returned to Smithfield earlier this month for the first regulated horse fair, and it passed off without a hitch.
The fair, which took place on Sunday, March 3, was the first of two fairs that will take place this year under new bylaws adopted by Dublin City Council.
The first regulated fair proved more of an attraction for tourists than horse traders with only 49 event licenses issued for the day but it’s hoped the number will be higher at next September’s fair.
In its heyday, the fair had attracted as many as 4,000 traders and spectators but concern about horse and public safety in recent years prompted the crackdown by Dublin City Council.
The council had repeatedly sought the closure of the market which was condemned by the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA), but it was blocked by an ancient market right of horse traders to hold their sales on the land.
Under new controls and byelaws passed in January, a casual trading licence costing e10 is required for those attending at the market.
According to Cllr Gerry Breen (FG), chair of the Dublin City Council fair committee, one of the difficulties was having the fair
“in the middle of the horse-meat controversy
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He also said more work has to be done to increase the number of horses both for show and for sale at the fair.
“We will meet this week to discuss what worked and what didn’t work,
? he stated.
“I was delighted that at any time there were about 1,000 attendees at the fair and there was great interest in the farrier (equine hoof care), traditional music, art features and some of the carriages.
“We need to get some relaxation of the controls both at the city parameters and also on the approaches to the fair to make it easier to attend, provided horses are passported and owners possess casual trading licences.
“I would like to compliment the Smithfield Horse Owners group for the positive engagement with the organisation of the fair.
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According to Paul Clegg, Executive Manager with Dublin City Council, the fair was organised not just with horse traders in mind but also tourists
“The traditional display of horses was accompanied by live traditional music, a photography exhibition and a slide show highlighting the history and significance of the Smithfield horse fair.
“Dublin City Council believes that the new bye laws will improve the welfare of horses attending the fair and the experience of attending the fair for the public.
“We have worked with Smithfield Horse Owners, DSPCA and elected representatives to ensure this and hope to see the fair become part of Dublin’s exciting programme of events.
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The only other horse fair to be held in Smithfield Plaza this year will take place on September 1, from 9am to 1.30pm.