RTÉ Sport has learned of a potential row between the Equestrian Association of Ireland and the Show Jumping Asscociation of Ireland.
Yesterday evening, secretary general of the EFI Dan Butler sent a letter to SJAI chairman Charles Hanley outlining the possible withdrawal of Sports Council funding for the coming year.
It is speculated that the federation is not happy with the current procedures at the Show Jumping Association regarding the recent appointment of Robert Splaine as senior team chef d'equipe.
The threat of funding withdrawal will come as a serious blow to the Show Jumping Association.
It is understood that the Equestrian Federation is seeking an input in the selection of a new director general at the Show Jumping Head Office.
The SJAI have confirmed the receipt of the letter and issued the following response: "The Show Jumping Association of Ireland can confirm that it has received a letter from Dan Butler, Secretary General of the Equestrian Federation of Ireland (EFI), and that the contents of this letter will be discussed at a meeting of the SJAI Executive within the next week, and a statement issued at that time.
"The letter from the EFI deals with the procedures regarding the appointment of a new SJAI Director General, as well as the selection process for the new Chef d'Equipe."
It continued: "The SJAI wishes to point out that Ms Liz Pottie has already been appointed as acting SJAI Director General.
"No other comment on the matter will be made by the SJAI until after its executive meeting."
