KILDARE South TD Seán Ó Fearghaíl has established a cross-party group of Oireachtas members who have a particular interest in supporting the racing and bloodstock sector.

Chaired by Deputy Ó Fearghaíl with Kildare South and Labour Party TD Mark Wall acting as vice chair, the group, supported by Horse Racing Ireland, has as its primary goal the promotion of the thoroughbred industry within Dáil and Seanad Éireann.

The objectives of the group will include keeping the government informed on current issues and developments within the horse racing and bloodstock sectors, fostering positive relationships among all sectors of the racing industry, promoting the well-being and sustainability of the sector, and supporting human and equine welfare standards.

Ó Fearghaíl said: “We intend to gather again in February and invite all Oireachtas members who wish to come forward and join this informal cross-party group. It is our intention to reflect the importance of the bloodstock industry to the Irish economy, the manner in which the Irish public embraces the sport, and its internationally positive reputational impact for our country. “

Mark Wall TD said: “The racing and breeding sector is so important to our economy and the rural economy in particular, proudly coming from the Thoroughbred County, I see at first hand the importance of this industry to Kildare.”