The Referrals Committee, Sean Barry (in the Chair), Laurence McFerran and Philip Caffrey, met at the Turf Club, The Curragh, Co. Kildare, on Wednesday, 18th May, 2016, to consider whether or not James T. Gorman (Trainer) was in breach of the Rules of Racing as a result of a random stable inspection carried out at his Training Establishment on 19th October, 2015, by Turf Club officials, Michael O’Donoghue, Paul Murtagh and Andrew Tyrrell, MRCVS.

At the inspection certain anomalies arose including:-

(i)    It was observed that an employee was riding out without wearing a body protector - Rule 148 (v) (b).

(ii)   Two Stable Staff Employees had left the training establishment without the Turf Club being notified - Rule 149 (ii).

(iii)  A failure to display the Stable Employees Bonus Scheme - Rule 298.5.

The matter was referred to the Referrals Committee by Josh Byrne, Registrar of the Irish National Hunt Steeplechase Committee.

Evidence was heard from Michael O’ Donoghue and James T. Gorman, trainer.  The Committee also considered the various reports.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee found James T. Gorman to be in breach of Rule 148 (v) (b) and fined him €200.  In relation to Rule 149 (ii) the Committee noted the explanation offered by Mr. Gorman and did not impose a sanction.  In relation to Rule 298.5 the Committee noted Mr. Gorman’s explanation and did not impose a sanction.

The case was presented to the Committee by Paul Murtagh, Stipendiary Steward.