Committee writes to the Taoiseach regarding suspension of point-to-point racing in Ireland

At last Monday’s Committee meeting, it was agreed that the chairperson of the Joint Committee on Agriculture and the Marine would express serious concerns 
in relation to the suspension of point-to-point racing due 
to Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions.

Chair Jackie Cahill, TD, explained: “The Committee requests that point-to-point racing be allowed to recommence under strict safety protocols as a matter of urgency.

“Horse racing and show jumping events have been permitted to take place under such safety protocols, and similar dispensation should be extended to the point-to-point format.”

The Committee previously wrote to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine on February 18, with a response subsequently received by the Committee.

The Committee makes this latest request in the context of upcoming discussions on easing Covid-19 restrictions, and the importance for the horse sport industry and the livelihoods of those involved.

Chair Cahill added: “The safety protocols put in place to allow horse racing to continue behind closed doors should be considered to allow a resumption of point-to-point.

“Although the committee welcomes the five additional National Hunt meetings this month, a return of the point-to-point racing form is needed to showcase horses.

“Point-to-point is the nursery for Ireland’s extremely successful horse racing industry and its suspension has serious implications for the bloodstock industry and the broader rural economy.”