In 2025, the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society (CPBS) was delighted to receive funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) under the Equine Technical Support (ETS) Scheme.

This support enabled the Society to deliver a series of strategic projects that strengthened our operations, enhanced member services, modernised inspection and breeding programmes, and promoted the Connemara Pony both nationally and internationally.

 

Funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
under the Equine Technical Support Scheme.

 

 

The section below provides a brief overview of the projects delivered with DAFM support in 2025.

 

 

Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society – ETS 2025 Project Overview

 

Project Title: Parentage Verification for First Time Registrations 2025

Summary: 
CPBS introduced enhanced DNA parentage verification using advanced SNP testing with Weatherbys Scientific. Over 2,900 samples were processed, improving accuracy, traceability, and pedigree integrity within the Connemara Pony Studbook.

 

---

 

Project Title: AIMS Reset API

Summary: 
CPBS upgraded its AMS system to directly link with DAFM's AIMS database via a REST API, enabling real-time equine data updates and reducing administrative workload.

 

---

 

Project Title: Miscellaneous 1

Summary:
 Targeted AMS improvements to strengthen DNA profiling accuracy, add validation checks, and streamline parentage verification-reducing manual effort and turnaround time.

 

---

 

Project Title: Miscellaneous 2

Summary: 
Introduced suffix registration with ownership certificates and a membership-number search feature, modernising breeder identification and improving user accessibility.

 

---

 

Project Title: Online Inspection Entry

Summary: 
CPBS launched a new digital Show Entry System in 2025, allowing members to submit, verify, and pay for entries online. The system automatically checks eligibility for each class, improving accuracy, reducing admin time, and making show participation simpler and more efficient for breeders.

 

---

 

Project Title: Online Updates 1

Summary: 
Expanded cpbsonline.ie with new tools: inbreeding calculator, HWSD matrix, automated DNA notifications, and digital messaging-enhancing breeder insight and office efficiency.

 

---

 

Project Title: Online Updates 2

Summary: 
Delivered major online database upgrades for DNA testing, ownership transfer, and prefix/suffix registration, improving breeder services and system automation. 

 

---

 

Project Title: Show Entry

Summary:
 Implemented an online system to modernise show entries and inspections, enabling real-time validation, automated eligibility checks, and streamlined data management.

 

---

 

Project Title: Purchase of New Passport Stud Machine

Summary: 
Installation of a second studding machine at its Clifden office, doubling capacity and ensuring continuity in passport production. The upgrade improved reliability, speed, and overall service delivery.

 

---

 

Project Title: CPBS Stand at the RDS (Dublin Horse Show) 2025

Summary:
 The CPBS stand promoted the Connemara pony at the 2025 Dublin Horse Show, engaging with all Show visitors. Supported by DAFM, it strengthened public awareness, membership, international connections, and provided an additional avenue to engage with and meet members directly.

 

---

 

Project Title: CPBS Marketing and Promotion

Summary: 
Through partnership with Digital Hustle, CPBS delivered a modern communications strategy-enhancing branding, storytelling, and global visibility to promote the Connemara Pony as a symbol of Irish heritage.

 

---

 

Project Title: Inspections within the CPBS Studbook

Summary:
 Nationwide Colt and Filly inspections held in Spring and Autumn, conducted using a new digital scoring system and the introduction of Class Overheight (OH) for ponies measuring over 148cm. The project improved transparency, data accuracy, and maintaining breed quality and standard through DAFM support.

 

---

 

Project Title: Connemara Pony Breeders Education Initiative 2025: Bridging Tradition and Innovation

Summary: 
A hybrid learning programme deepened understanding of the Connemara Breed Standard through online modules and workshops. Educational videos were produced to extend learning across the breeder community.