The Referrals Committee, Mr N B Wachman (Chairman), Mr Anthony Byrne and Mr Raymond J McSharry convened at the offices of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board on Wednesday, 5 June 2024 to consider whether Mr Sean O’Brien (Trainer) was in breach of any rules of racing arising from a stable inspection carried out at his Training Establishment on 8 January 2023 by IHRB officials.

On the day, the inspection team noted that Mr O’Brien’s current Veterinary Medicines Register was not available for inspection as required under Rule 148(iii)(b).

At the Referral Hearing, the committee considered a written submission from Mr O’Brien.

In his submission, Mr O’Brien stated that he keeps his Medicines Register book at his home and on the day of the inspection he could not locate the Medicines Register. Mr O’Brien apologised for the error and stated he will endeavour to do better going forward.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee found Mr O’Brien in breach of Rule 148(iii)(b) and having considered his record in this regard imposed a fine of €350.

The case was presented by Ms Clíodhna Guy, IHRB Head of Governance and Legal.