Statement – Ray Murrihy, Senior Stipendiary Steward, 1 September 2023
Independent Inquiry into Racing in Tasmania
My investigations into the Terms of Reference (ToR) for this inquiry are ongoing.
Importantly, I am yet to make specific findings about individuals and organisations, where that is required by particular ToRs. However the interim report is being put forward with the view that my current findings can be considered for inclusion in the draft Code of Practice for equine welfare and management, which is currently being progressed by Tasracing and is due to be out for public consultation in coming weeks.
Further, the interim report may be considered as part of any future review by Government of regulations under the Animal Welfare Act 1993.
This interim report is also being delivered so that the Government may consider my findings against those made in the Monteith Report, as they traverse similar ground. The Monteith Report and its recommendations have formed the basis of a draft Bill that is currently out for consultation. Tasmanian harness racing has a long and distinguished history and it is my hope that the recommendations in my interim report will ensure that the tradition can continue and flourish.
Due to the availability of witnesses, the volume of information which I have received and the need to afford those involved in my inquiry procedural fairness, I have not been able to finalise a report with respect to the entirety of the terms of reference. I continue to work on a final report into these matters. I am dedicated to ensuring the integrity of that report and the strength of the recommendations made. I have requested additional time to deliver the final report to the Government, as I believe it is vitally important that this investigation is not rushed, and due diligence is undertaken.
I aim to conclude my inquiry and deliver a final report later this year, noting the above.
Media release – Felix Ellis, Minister for Racing, 1 September 2023
Strengthening the integrity of harness racing in Tasmania
The Rockliff Liberal Government is a proud supporter of Tasmania’s racing community and the thousands of people who are part of it.
The Government has taken strong action to protect the integrity of the racing community and strengthen animal welfare outcomes, because we take these matters seriously.
The Government has received the interim report from Mr Ray Murrihy that relates to allegations of team driving, race fixing and animal welfare concerns in the Tasmanian harness racing industry and the management of those issues by the Office of Racing Integrity.
Felix Ellis, Minister for Racing, said the work that Mr Murrihy is undertaking supports the strong action already being delivered through the Monteith Review and the recent release of the draft Racing Regulation and Integrity Bill 2023.
The draft Bill includes the creation of a Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner, who will have powers to set integrity and animal welfare standards.
“The draft Bill is currently open for public comment until 6 October 2023 and provides certainty to the racing industry which generates more than $185 million in economic activity for Tasmania and involves more than 5800 people across the state.
“The Tasmanian Government will now consider Mr Murrihy’s interim report and provide a response in due course.
“I thank Mr Murrihy for delivering this interim report, while he continues to work through a final report. It is important that this investigation ensures procedural fairness to those involved – this is an independent process and the work is vital and should not be rushed.
“I also acknowledge the many industry members and stakeholders who engaged with Mr Murrihy through the extensive and comprehensive review process,” Minister Ellis said.
The Bill can be accessed here.
Media release – Dean Winter MP, Shadow Minister for Racing, 1 September 2023
Liberals must release Murrihy interim report ASAP
The minority Liberal government must release the interim findings of the review of the state’s racing industry as a matter of urgency.
There have already been two delays in the production of Ray Murrihy’s report – leaving the interim report as the only opportunity for Tasmanians to see the full extent of the issues in the industry and any progress that is being made.
It has now been five months since the review started and it appears that this government is doing everything it can to keep Tasmanians in the dark.
The obsession with secrecy and lack of transparency is endemic to the Liberal government.
Labor calls on the government to finally be open and honest with Tasmanians and release the interim report as soon as possible.
