Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 27:

In page 10, line 35, after “directive.” to insert the following:“HRI may dispense with such consultation where it considers there is an urgency to make the directive and shall inform the Racing Regulatory Body accordingly.”.

This is another issue that was sensitive for the racing regulatory body. We are trying to clarify what "consultation" means. Does it mean a person or body has to get approval or does it mean that they simply have to consult? Before I make decisions I consult all manner of people but certain decisions rest with me at the end of the day. Those in Horse Racing Ireland need clarity on the level of consultation they must have before making a decision. Obviously, the racing regulatory body also sought to understand what level of consultation would be involved or what "consultation" means in terms of interaction with HRI when it comes to making changes in the rules of racing. The wording we have put in place is, "HRI may dispense with such consultation where it considers there is an urgency to make the directive and shall inform the Racing Regulatory Body accordingly." The inverse language applies as well. In other words, if those in the racing regulatory body need to change the rules because of something urgent, they can do so. In normal circumstances they would be expected to consult to ensure the process works. However, if they have to make a decision, they can get on with it and make it happen quickly. The same applies for those in HRI if there is some crisis that needs to be dealt with.