§ Mr. Harry GreenwayTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the estimated current equine population of Northern Ireland; for what principal purposes horses, ponies, donkeys and mules are used in the Province; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AncramIt is estimated that there is a current equine population of 25,000 animals in Northern Ireland. Horses are used mainly for hunting, show jumping, eventing and racing; ponies are used for leisure activities; donkeys are kept mainly as pets; there is no record of any mules kept in Northern Ireland.