THE MINISTER for Agriculture, Michael Creed, was a special guest at the ITBA National Breeding & Racing Awards last weekend. He took to the stage to answer a number of questions posed by master of ceremonies, Leo Powell.

Asked for his general impressions of the bloodstock industry, Minister Creed said he quickly became aware of the sector’s high international profile. “One of the great opportunities in this role is to travel globally. Most recently, I was in south-east Asia and Japan, where I some interesting conversations about Irish racing. Also when in the UAE I became aware of the global recognition the industry has.”