The Ontario Horse Racing Industry Association (OHRIA) recognizes the Ontario breeding industry is the first sector of the industry negatively impacted by the cancellation of the Slots at Racetracks Program by the Ontario Government.

OHRIA has communicated to the Government that their sudden shift of direction for the horse racing and breeding in Ontario and the cancellation of the agreement has caused serious repercussions within our industry.

OHRIA is working with the Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) to establish a new date for Standardbred yearling nominations. We understand that any delay decreases the credibility of the Ontario breeding programs and ultimately the horse racing industry. We have requested the ORC immediately begin consultation with the Breed Advisory Groups to define the scope and criteria of programs to insure the long term viability of a breeding industry in Ontario.

OHRIA continues to impress upon the Government the extent of the damage occurring daily within the breeding industry and the economy of Ontario as a result of the cancellation of the Slots at Racetracks program. We will continue to do so until we obtain a satisfactory resolution for the horse racing and breeding industry.

(OHRIA)