LABOUR shortages in the breeding industry, upgrading the Irish Equine Centre, and dealing with the after-effects of Brexit are among the most pressing issues for the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, according to the Association chair Cathy Grassick.

Addressing the ITBA’s annual general meeting this week, Grassick praised the Government for its recent inclusion of the equine sector in the TAMS grant scheme, and commended Horse Racing Ireland and the sales companies for continuing the IRE Incentive scheme.

However, the chairperson added: “Irish breeders still face pressing issues on the horizon on the national, European and international fronts and we must keep up the hard work to maintain momentum.

“These issues include the provision of work visas to the breeding industry, the funding for the development of the Irish Equine Centre, sustainability, welfare, gaining access to the Brexit Adjustment Reserve Fund and working to remove VAT on temporary imports of breeding stock to Ireland. We pledge to continue to represent the breeders of Ireland effectively on all fronts.”

Grassick acknowledged the continuing work of regional chairs and the increased regional activity following successful breeders evenings which were supported by the Irish Equine Centre, Irish Thoroughbred Marketing and Weatherbys.

She also recognised the ongoing work of ITBA veterinary consultant Des Leadon and European Federation of Thoroughbred Breeders Associations chairman Joe Hernon around the movement of equines and the high health breeding status concept.

The Association appointed Joe Foley and Joe Osborne as new trustees.

Following the AGM, Grassick added: ‘’I am pleased with the work the Association has achieved in the past 12 months and look forward to seeing ITBA maintain that progress.

“Staff shortages are a concern for the industry and we are working closely with stakeholders around solutions

“The recently published Deloitte report on the Social and Economic Impact of Thoroughbred Breeding & Racing by Horse Racing Ireland reinforces the vital role breeding contributes to the Irish economy.

“I wish to thank ITBA Council for their continued support and commitment to working for and on behalf of Irish breeders.”