11 April 2008

STATE GOVERNMENT REFORMS ON THE WAY

Michael Yates, a leading solicitor and director of the NSW Racehorse Owners Association, is confident the upcoming State Government reforms to the Racing NSW Board will bring better decision making and more cohesive leadership to the industry.

" We congratulate the Government on its decision to replace the current 'nominee' Board structure with independent members who must act in the interests of the whole industry rather than promoting their own sectors," Yates said.

" The various sectors including our association expect to retain a direct voice via representation on the new consultative committee (RICG), however the independent board will have to make the final decisions that benefit the overall industry."

Yates considers the new five-man board will be a "significant improvement" on the current model.

" People talking about board 'tickets' and 'membership blocks' have obviously missed the whole point of the intended reforms," he added.

Courtesy Daily Telegraph – Ray Thomas