The Referrals Committee, Justice Tony Hunt (in the chair), Philip Caffrey and Philip McLernon met at the Turf Club, The Curragh, Co. Kildare on Tuesday, 22nd August 2017, to consider whether or not Philip O’Connor, Restricted Trainer, was in breach of any rules as a result of issues highlighted during a stewards’ enquiry at Limerick on 22nd July and a stable inspection at his Training Establishment on 27th July 2017.

The matter was referred to the Referrals Committee by Cliodhna Guy, Head of Legal and Compliance.

At both the enquiry and stable inspection, it was noted that he had failed to correctly register the ownership in “Mason’s Daughter” to reflect the 50% share held by John Hallahan since the filly was a two-year-old.

The Committee noted the written reports prepared by Michael O’Donoghue, Turf Club official, in relation to the issues which arose. They also noted a written submission from Mr. O’Connor which said that the failure to register Mr. Hallahan’s interest was due to an oversight.

Having considered the evidence the Referrals Committee found Philip O’Connor to be in breach of Rule 148(vi) insofar as when he returned the horse in training, he omitted to declare the correct ownership details. He was fined €200 in respect of the rule breach.

The case was presented Cliodhna Guy, solicitor, Head of Legal and Compliance.