NEWS

AIRE has received an Educational Fund for staff or helpers in Approved Riding Centres to upskill or receive new qualifications.  There is a huge shortage of qualified instructors/trek leaders in the industry, it is hoped that this fund will help to ease the situation.  AIRE can now cover the cost of BHS assessments retrospectively when the correct paperwork is submitted by an Approved Riding Centre.  First Aid and Manual Handling courses will be covered for members and named staff.  Terms and conditions have been sent to the members. 

In order to receive a grant the centre must be currently approved by AIRE, copies of all paperwork must be on file in the office.

BHS Exams: To make a claim for the cost of an exam, AIRE Approved Riding Centres should forward the payment receipt (showing participant name, date, and type of exam) from BHS together with the successful certificate or assessment sheet should the candidate fail the exam.   If the devolved method is used for Ride Safe Award or Stage 1 exams, a receipt of payment from the host centre naming the participant is acceptable.   Trekking Centres may use this initiative to train as Ride Leaders/Centre Managers.  Extra dates will be arranged as required. 

Students/helpers availing of grant funded exams must commit to work experience/training of 15 hours per week for 4 weeks in the AIRE Approved Riding/Trekking Centres.   The training will be free of charge,  all work must be paid for in line with Workplace Relations Commission.   Training for BHS Exams will be by prior agreement with Approved Riding Centre and can only be offered by Centres with BHS trained staff.  The Centre will be re-imbursed for the payment of exam when detailed receipt and proof of attendance is submitted.  AIRE wishes to assist centres with the current lack of staff.  This grant will assist those working in the industry to gain qualifications.

AIRE Members may update Health & Safety policies, AIRE will pay up to the maximum amount of €400 towards the fee.

Horse Sport Ireland Coaching & Therapeutic Riding Courses:  will be partly covered with detailed receipts together with certificate of attendance.

First Aid Responder & Manual Handling courses will also be covered for members and staff with similar conditions..