THE Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed, has announced that Indecon International Economic Consultants will carry out an economic review of the Irish harness racing sector.

The review could lead to the sport gaining Government funding, possibly through the Horse & Greyhound Racing Fund which would, in turn, mean a smaller percentage going to Horse Racing Ireland.

The Minister said: “Following a discussion at the joint committee and the committee stage of the Horse Racing Ireland Bill 2016 it was agreed to consider a review of the industry.”

The review will focus on:

  • Assessing the value of the sector’s contribution to the economic and social life of the country.
  • Assess the potential of the sector to increase its contribution to the Irish economy.
  • Evaluating the current structure of the Irish Harness Racing Association (IHRA) as an organisation and decide whether the board operates in accordance with best practice governance principles. Examine the size, skills make-up and method of appointment to the board to ensure it is best designed to ensure that the organisation operates efficiently.

    • Minister Creed also referred to the stakeholder consultation process, facilitated by his Department as part of the review. “Through this process stakeholders have been afforded an opportunity to make a contribution to this review. In this regard my Department has received submissions which will be passed to Indecon for consideration.

    “I felt that it was very important stakeholders had their say in the process and I am delighted that there has been engagement from the sector. Of course, there may be further engagement with stakeholders, as appropriate, as the exercise progresses.”