THE executive of Showjumping Ireland have taken over the running and administration of the Connaught Region of the association following the region’s decision with “deep regret” to withdraw from attending the executive and all standing committees at present.

A letter from the Connaught Region to the SJI executive members, dated November 29th and signed off by 11 members, stated: “We have, as you are all aware, consistently voiced our concerns regarding the governance of our Association, but in light of the most recent accusation against members of our region, we feel we cannot continue to be party to the current administration.”

The Irish Field believes the “most recent accusation” relates back to an issue which arose at a meeting of the pony committee some months ago, which led Connacht members to believe there is an issue of double standards within the association.

A letter from the chairman of SJI, Eamon Rice, on Friday, said: “In the interest of our Connaught members, the executive of the Showjumping Association of Ireland have decided to assume the running and administration of the Connaught region until such time as the Connaught committee members re-engage with the executive.

“As a result the executive committee of the association has no other option other than to assume temporary control of the following for the Connaught region: full financial control of the Connaught region accounts in order to facilitate the administration of the Connaught region; show affiliations; pony measurings; connaught regional training and assessments.

“The Executive Committee reserve the right to take all such measures necessary to protect all members and the association,” he added. The Connaught Region are due to hold its AGM on Monday night.