Irish Stablestaff and Trainers Reach Agreement The Irish Stablestaff Association (ISA) and the Irish Race Horse Trainers Association (IRTA) have reached agreement on minimum terms and conditions of employment for stablestaff following extensive negotiations between the two bodies, facilitated by Horse Racing Ireland (HRI).The agreement covers a wide range of areas including minimum rates of pay, working hours, pensions and grievance procedures.Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, John O´Donoghue T.D. said: -'I wish to commend both the Irish Stablestaff Association and the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association on reaching this agreement, which is a significant move for the positive future of stablestaff in Ireland. In particular, it is a recognition of the vital contribution that this highly skilled and well motivated work force make to the Irish Horse Racing industry.'Dan Kirwan, Chairman of the ISA said: - 'We welcome this new document, the first of its kind in Irish racing, as it recognises the unique skills of Irish stablestaff, which are a major contributory factor to the success of the Irish thoroughbred worldwide. A new minimum wage rate, improved racing expenses, career development structures and a yearly review of the agreement are just some of the highlights of this progressive document which we hope will retain skilled staff and attract new people into the industry.'Commenting on the agreement Michael Grassick, Chairman of the IRTA said: - 'The Irish Racehorse Trainers Association are pleased to announce this agreement in conjunction with the Irish Stablestaff Association. This agreement could not have taken place without the commitment and goodwill of both parties and their respective committees. It is an acknowledgement of the important role that Irish stablestaff play in the Irish racing industry. We wish to extend our appreciation to HRI who facilitated these talks'.Following ratification of the agreement by both associations Brian Kavanagh, Chief Executive of HRI said:- 'Great credit must go to the representatives on both sides who approached this process with determination to achieve a satisfactory outcome. HRI wants to see an industry where best practice applies in relation to terms and conditions of employment and we were happy to facilitate the discussions which led to this agreement.'
