PRESS RELEASE – Analytical Samples forwarded to the Independent Control Committee

Greyhound Racing Ireland (GRI) wishes to confirm that four samples taken in accordance with the Greyhound Industry Racing Regulations 2007 Section 29 (2) and (3) at the quarter-final round 3 of the Puppy Derby held on the 26th September 2014 have returned a positive finding for prohibited substances. These cases have been referred to the Control Committee for consideration.

Prize money for all other greyhounds that competed in the Quarter final stage of the Puppy Derby on September 26th 2014 has been released.

The publication of analytical findings requiring a referral to the Control Committee is part of GRI’s move towards greater transparency for all stakeholders in our anti-doping and medication control programme.

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For further information contact:

Orla Strumble
Head of Marketing
Orla.strumble@grireland.ie or 061-448025

Note for Editors

Currently the only regulatory mechanism through which publication of any detailed findings can be published is at the conclusion of proceedings before the Control Committee or the Control Appeal Committee. Pursuant to Article 8(6) of the Greyhound Industry (Control Committee and Control Appeal Committee) Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 301 of 2007) the Control Committee shall publish its findings in all decisions in a manner it deems fit and such publication is delayed subject to appeal procedures.

However, because of the GRI recognition of the wider public interest which has been generated in relation to the results of samples tested, and in accordance with our move to greater transparency, GRI confirms that positive results have been found after the analytical phase and prior to the hearing at Control Committee.

GRI further confirms that it is currently discussing proposals for future public consultations as to a legislative instrument which will enable publication of all adverse findings once the results have been returned from the laboratory.

As detailed in GRI’s response to the Indecon Report submitted to the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine on the 14 October 2014, GRI is committed to ensuring our regulatory system is aligned with international best practice founded on integrity, education and transparency to all our stakeholders.