A meeting between The Irish Greyhound Owners and Breeder’s Federation and the Board of Rásaíocht Con Éireann took place at the Horse and Jockey at 12.30 pm on Thursday 23rd February 2023.
In attendance for The IGOBF:-
Damian Matthews, Chairman of IGOBF, Deirdre Leahy, Secretary of IGOBF and Geoff Parnaby IGOBF and Clare Hanley.
In attendance for Rásaíocht Con Éireann :-
Mr. Frank Nyham, Chairman, Mr. John Tuohey, Acting CEO, Aileen Lennon, Alex Grassick, Richie Regan, Elizabeth Gray, Patrick Flanagan, Anne Channon.
The IGOBF commended the recent very successful student nights at Shelbourne Park, Galway and Cork and praised the notable social media improvements across all the tracks.
The IGOBF informed Rásaíocht Con Éireann of meetings they were having with some senior politicians from Fianna Fail and Fine Gael.
The IGOBF put forward the following issues from their members:-
The makeup of the Board of Rásaíocht Con Éireann to mirror that of H.R.I. i.e., stakeholders representative’s appointments.
The delay in the implementation of capital developments (Shelbourne Park & Kilkenny), awaiting the new 5-year plan since the sale of Harold’s Cross has led to uncertainty in the industry.
Clarity regarding the proposed new gambling legislation to our sector.
Proposed amendments to Category 2 meat thresholds must be reviewed immediately.
Financial implications to the knackeries, the farmers and the greyhound owners and breeders will be substantial in the present economic climate.
Ringfence a percentage of the Greyhound Fund for prizemoney, hence back to the grassroots of the industry, in line with HRI model.
An increase in prizemoney is a top priority to help with the cost of living crisis and Removal of vat from dog food.
Technology advances with the RCÉTS APP could be used to benefit owners, trainers, managers and transport and rehoming preparation.
An increase in private track grants/allocations.
Barking Buzz needs investment and overhaul to generate more revenue.
We are seeking to have some input and some active involvement with The New 5-year plan and the implementation of the previous 5-year plan ending 2022.