Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) has released a comprehensive plan for the future growth and sustainability of the Irish horse racing and breeding sector. This roadmap, spanning from 2024 to 2028, is centred around strengthening Ireland’s prestigious standing in the global equine market and expanding economic and social benefits.
Suzanne Eade, the CEO of HRI, emphasised two primary goals of the blueprint: to foster industry excellence and bolster public engagement. Irish equine prowess is globally recognised; safeguarding and enhancing this reputation is central to HRI’s vision. Through careful stewardship and leveraging diverse revenue sources, HRI is targeting an expansion of the industry’s economic impact from €2.46 billion to €3 billion by 2028.
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At the heart of this strategy is a commitment to the safety and welfare of both human and equine participants, ensuring industry practices align with environmental and sustainability standards. Capital investment projects such as a dedicated campus are in the pipeline to serve the needs of the sector while nurturing a skilled future workforce. A new all-weather track at Tipperary Racecourse is anticipated to amplify domestic opportunities and contribute to Ireland’s already substantial foreign direct investment in the sector.
Outreach and brand activation are also areas slated for development, with plans to elevate both national and international engagement. This includes growing market exposure for Irish thoroughbreds and embracing innovation in areas such as digital marketing.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, endorsed the strategic plan, recognising the substantial financial contribution of the racing and breeding industry to Ireland’s rural economy. The plan’s focus on social accountability and educational expansion aligns with the Minister’s vision for the industry. A harmonious blend of socioeconomic development with environmental stewardship forms the backbone of this strategic direction.
HRI continues to place a premium on welfare and integrity, ensuring the sector maintains its esteem across global circles. The publication of this plan coincides with the launch of HRI’s ‘Racing Towards a Better World’ sustainability strategy, which anchors its commitment to future-proofing the industry through responsible resource management and ethical governance.
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Key Goals of Ireland’s Horseracing and Breeding Strategy
The plan sets forth several goals aimed at augmenting the quality and quantity of races, increasing the minimum value of races, and bolstering educational programmes to fulfil the employment needs of the industry.
Strategy to Bolster Ireland’s Global Standings in Thoroughbred Racing
The five-year strategy is targeting the enhancement of Ireland’s reputation by sustaining and expanding its position as a premier nation for racing and breeding. Central to this is increased investment and showcasing Ireland’s commitment to the sport on an international platform.
Horse Welfare Measures in the Irish Racing Industry
Various initiatives are being put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of horses. These include veterinary care standards, training for handlers, and ongoing welfare assessments throughout a horse’s racing career.
Enhancing the Sustainability of Racing Venues in Ireland
Sustainability efforts for Ireland’s racing tracks feature in the strategic plan, with an emphasis on improving infrastructure, implementing environmentally friendly practices, and maintaining high-quality facilities to ensure public enjoyment and horse safety.
Impact of the Strategic Plan on Employment in the Equine Sector
The strategy promises to positively impact the job market within the equine industry by offering more education and training opportunities, which are expected to cultivate a skilled workforce to support the sector’s growth.
Strengthening Integrity and Regulatory Framework in Irish Horseracing
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board’s (IHRB) strategy includes steps to reinforce integrity and the regulatory framework. This entails stringent compliance protocols and transparent procedures to uphold the sport’s integrity.