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HRI Board Issues Statement After EGM

Brian Kavanagh Brian Kavanagh
© Photo Healy Racing

The Board Of Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) has issued a statement this evening regarding the on-going controversy surrounding the re-appointment of its CHief Executive Brian Kavanagh.

The following is their statement:

The Board of Horse Racing Ireland met today to review matters concerning the reappointment of its Chief Executive, Brian Kavanagh and elements of the commentary and misunderstandings which have followed. The Board expressed regret that this matter has become the subject of public concern.

The Board refuted suggestions that the Chairman intentionally misled the relevant Government Departments with regard to the CEO appointment process. Dating back to 2011 the then Board mandated the then HRI Chairman to advance outstanding matters regarding the resolution of the CEO’s contract and any related matters. This issue was transferred to the new Chairman, Mr. Joe Keeling, on his succession to office in March 2013.

The Board confirmed that the Chairman’s actions and intentions reflected its views regarding the CEO’s contract. It also recognised that a more collegiate approach would have improved the process, but were fully agreed that there was no intention to incorrectly inform the Minister or that the Board’s views had been misrepresented.

The Board, having endorsed Mr. Kavanagh’s appointment previously, confirmed today that it is satisfied that the best result for HRI and the industry has been achieved with the successful completion of the new CEO contract.