Racecourse body Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) has issued a warning about the potential repercussions of a new gambling Bill that could result in separate TV coverage of Irish racing. The proposed legislation, known as the Gambling Control Bill, aims to regulate the gambling industry in Ireland and could have significant implications for how horse racing is broadcasted on television.
Under the current system, Irish racing is covered by the At The Races channel, which also broadcasts British horse racing. However, if the proposed Bill becomes law, it could require separate coverage for Irish racing, potentially leading to reduced exposure for the sport and impacting its popularity among viewers.
HRI has expressed concerns that separate TV coverage could result in a significant decline in viewership and revenue for Irish racing, which plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. The organization has warned that the move could have far-reaching consequences for the industry, leading to job losses and a loss of investment in the sport.
In a statement, HRI CEO Brian Kavanagh emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong presence for Irish racing on television, highlighting the contribution of the sport to the country’s cultural heritage and economy. He noted that the proposed legislation could undermine the success of Irish racing and urged policymakers to consider the potential impact on the industry before enacting the Bill.
The issue of separate TV coverage for Irish racing has sparked debate among industry stakeholders, with some expressing support for the proposed changes while others voice concerns about the potential negative impact. Proponents argue that separate coverage could help to promote Irish racing as a distinct product and attract a wider audience, while opponents fear that it could lead to a decline in viewership and revenue for the sport.
As the gambling Bill makes its way through the legislative process, the future of Irish racing on television remains uncertain. Industry leaders are calling for a balanced and well-informed approach to the issue, highlighting the need to prioritize the interests of Irish racing while also considering the broader implications of the proposed changes.
In the coming months, stakeholders will continue to monitor the progress of the gambling Bill and engage in discussions with policymakers to ensure that the interests of Irish racing are adequately represented in any decisions related to TV coverage. The outcome of these deliberations could have far-reaching consequences for the future of the sport in Ireland.
