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Sir Patrick Hogan has used his acceptance of life membership of the NZ Thoroughbred Breeders Association as a platform for a stinging attack on the New Zealand Government’s attitude to the racing and breeding industry.

Hogan called for racing to “shut down” as a stand against the NZ Government’s failure to address a myriad of problems in the NZ industry.

"Shutting down racing for a period of time might be the only way the Government will take any notice of us,” Hogan told the annual meeting of the3 NZTBA in his life membership acceptance speech.

“It is time we stopped pussy footing around and took some action.

'It is election year and already the politicians are out in force making promises and touting for votes. Where have they been these last two years?

“They listen attentively but do not perform on the sound breeding and racing policies put forward to them by our industry. 

"Seeking politicians support on any economic development or restructuring policies within our industry and then where are they. They are certainly not prepared to take any action in implementation whatsoever.

"May I suggest that the industry and its participants - the stake holders from administrators, breeders, owners, trainers, jockeys etc urgently establish and decide what is required to realise economic growth.

"Urgency is required in taking matters into our own hands.

“If the Government should not agree to give their unequivocal support to us then the stake holders in this industry should shut down racing for a period of time.

“Then and only then will they fully realise what our New Zealand breeding and racing industry is worth to this country and its earnings."

Hogan said taxation relief was needed to inspire investment in both NZ racing and breeding tpo put it on a level playing field with Australia.

Sir Patrick was honoured with life membership for his contribution as a past president and long serving member of the NZTBA council.

Source: NZ Thoroughbred News

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