Nicholson calls for funding review James Nicholson, chairman of Down Royal racecourse, has called for a one per cent charge on off-course bookmakers` turnover for the future funding of the sport in the province.He also wants a review of Northern Ireland`s Horse Racing Fund in view of the fact that betting tax is to be abolished this year.Nicholson said: 'Bookmakers estimate that turnover will increase by some 50 per cent and betting shop turnover in Northern Ireland is currently around Stg£130million.'I am advocating a one per cent charge on bookmakers` turnover. This charge will replace the current flat licence fee paid by each shop.'The new charge would mean shops would pay in proportion to turnover, resulting in a fairer system and less than half the two and a half per cent charge which the British Horseracing Board is pushing for in Great Britain.'The Horse Racing Fund for Northern Ireland was introduced in 1976 and is based on off-course shops paying an annual sum into a fund which is usedby the province`s other course Downpatrick as well.Nicholson added that a strategic plan will be issued to the Northern Ireland Government this autumn and the Down Royal board has asked for a meeting with off-course bookmaking representatives to discuss the issues.
