One of the country's up-and-coming trainers has said that horse racing is a showcase for an industry that supports 29,000 jobs and needs to return on 8 June to allow that industry to continue.
Racing was initially designated as a Phase 3 activity in the Government’s road map for reopening the country, but intense lobbying was carried out by people in the sector, who pointed out that it is not just a sport but also a key employer in rural Ireland.
The Government then agreed to allow it resume in Phase 2, on 8 June, with strict conditions attached, including a behind closed doors policy.
Paddy Twomey, who sent out two Classic-placed horses this time last year from his 60-strong yard at Athassel in Golden, Co Tipperary, said the 8 June return