Una Tormey was recently appointed as Membership Administrator for the ITBA.

IT has been a busy start to 2021, particularly as our membership year commenced in January. Brexit is keeping the industry on its toes with regard to changing regulations and we endeavour to keep our members informed, as the picture continues to evolve.

We continue to source and offer our members relevant and worthwhile benefits, something which has increased year on year. Schemes such as the tailor-made stud farm insurance scheme offered by Sean Barrett Bloodstock Insurances Ltd, has been well received by members.

Daily subscriptions to EBN and TDN together with RYB and Stallion Guide publications are also hugely popular. As are initial consultations with SC Dunne & Co Accountants and IFAC Taxation Consultants.

Members may be aware, from our communications regarding renewals this year, that the ITBA has incorporated a new cloud-based members’ database. This will further enable the ITBA to better serve our members, going forward we will look to offer similar solutions to our members. Once breeders can safely return to racing, our free breeders’ entry scheme will be re-established.

As Covid-19 restrictions emerged in early 2020, the ITBA quickly pivoted to offer subsidised virtual online educational programmes for members, content specific to meet their needs. The popularity of the webinars and online workshops is testament to the work of the expert panellists and contributors, together with Kerry Ryan. The ITBA is grateful for both their time and their contributions.

In the coming weeks the ITBA is conducting a comprehensive members survey. I encourage all members to participate in the survey. It is an opportunity for members to have their say across a range of important issues.

Our ITBA Breeders app contains the latest news and updates and we recommend all members to download the app.

For those who have not yet renewed their 2021 ITBA membership, or to go through the members’ benefits, you can contact me on 045 877 543 or 087 299 5606 or utormey@itba.ie

THE University of Liverpool is conducting research to identify mares that are more likely to develop colic following foaling. In addition, they are trying to determine if there are ways that they can manage thoroughbred mares around foaling to reduce their risk of colic. They would therefore like to invite you or the stud farm you work for to help them. For more details, please contact the ITBA at 045 877 543