Ontario Horse Racing Industry Supported by Ontario Federation of Agriculture in Opposing Slots Revenue Cuts

Following the recent release of the Drummond Report, and recommendations that would damage Ontario’s horse racing industry, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture(OFA), Canada’s largest voluntary farm organization, is voicing strong support for the men and women of Ontario horse racing.

“Horse racing is a vital part of Ontario’s agricultural economy,” said Mark Wales, President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture. “Any actions or decisions that weaken Ontario’s vibrant horse racing industry will impact the province’s rural and farming communities. From providing feed and hay to the industry to all of the businesses and services that support horse racing, the resulting harm will be devastating, and be felt for years to come.”

Standardbred Canada and the OFA are stressing the Drummond Report’s message of seeking value for money. The Ontario horse racing industry is one of the province’s best examples of value for money as its partnership with the government generates tremendous benefits for Ontario’s taxpayers and for the agriculture sector, through 60,000 jobs, $1.5 billion in wages and $2 billion in recurring expenditures, annually.

“We are very pleased to have the OFA stand with us in support of horse racing,” said John Gallinger, President and CEO of Standardbred Canada. “This is an issue that affects not only those directly related to horse racing, but many across rural Ontario. In fact, we know that any weakening of the Ontario horse racing industry will negatively impact thousands of hard-working men and women across the country.”

Established in 1936, the OFA is the voice of Ontario’s farmers, representing 37,000 farmers across the province.

(Standardbred Canada)

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