The Referrals Committee, Mr. P.J.A. O’Connor (in the chair), Mr. Charles C. Cunningham and Mr. C.E. O’Sullivan, met in the Turf Club Offices, The Curragh, Co. Kildare on 6th February 2008 to consider the referral of Mr. J. Halley by Mr. Denis Egan, Keeper of the Matchbook, in respect of the running of Dereks in the Kilbeggan I.N.H.S. Flat Race at Kilbeggan on 7th September 2007, when Mr. Halley’s name (as agent for the Strand Inn Syndicate) was on the Forfeit List as published in the Irish Racing Calendar on 30th August 2007.  Under the provisions of Rule 1 (ii) every person whose name has been published in the unpaid forfeit list is a disqualified person until the default is cleared and, under the provisions of Rule 87 (ii), a horse is not qualified to be entered or run for any race if, and so long as it is, in the ownership or part ownership of a disqualified person.

Evidence was heard from Ms. Cyndi Lennon, Client Accounts Manager, Horse Racing Ireland, and Mr. John Halley, who admitted the breach of Rules.  The latter also apologised to everyone concerned for any inconvenience caused.

Having considered the evidence the Committee noted that the debt had now been cleared in full and found him in breach of Rule 272.  Mr. Halley was fined €200.

The case was presented by Mr. Brian Price, Wilkinson & Price Solicitors, Naas, Co. Kildare.