Indecon Report a ‘road map’ for the sport

MICHAEL Creed, in his capacity as Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine recently published the long awaited Indecon report on the Irish Harness Racing Sector.

For IHRA Chairman Mark Flanagan and his committee the report was the culmination of four years hard work in gaining the sport some recognition.

Minister Creed has wholeheartedly accepted the report’s recommendations and most observers are of the opinion that once the IHRA creates a “road map” for the sport, then meaningful funding should follow.

The IHRA thanked Minister Creed for commissioning the report and went on to say in an official statement: “IHRA is delighted to receive the published Indecon Review of the Irish Harness Racing Sector and looks forward to implementing this road map and develop the sport and industry to its full potential.

“Minister Creed voiced his support for the IHRA to be vested with the responsibility for the operation of the Harness Racing Industry in Ireland.

“This vote of confidence enables IHRA and its Board to continue to enhance their ongoing Corporate Governance programme to be aligned with best practice, whilst continuing to progress and develop their current strategy and put in place a five-year plan.

“Through the sale of Irish harness races internationally, the ongoing growth of the burgeoning breeding industry and the expansion of initiatives such as the integration programme harness racing in Ireland is now poised to grow and make a significant contribution to the Irish economy.

“The IHRA Board will now identify funding requirements to support the expansion of the sector including budgets for seed funding from the Exchequer. It will also be analysing all aspects of the industry including implementing the Indecon Report recommendations for the development of a dedicated harness track and training facilities along with exploring ways this sport can enhance economic and social life in rural areas and the Irish economy.”

The full text of the report can be found on the department web site http://www.agriculture.gov.ie/farmingsectors/horses/reviewoftheirishharnessracingsector