March 8, 2007
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Let's not get too hung up on the concept of temporary suspension prior to a hearing. In industry, if there is a work place accident, an investigator can shut down a workplace and in fact all the operations of a company if he believes there is evidence of not abiding by the laws and regulations that govern workplace safety. Same power to a regulatory official who safeguards the environment. There are many other examples that highlight the power and ability of regulatory officers to step in prior to any charge being laid. The issue is being investigated. It is unfortunate that the process is taking a long time and that there are many lives in limbo, but we have to defer to the ORC and trust that the investigation will be thorough and that the hearing process will be fair.
Bill Andrew
Calgary, Alta.
One thing that you must understand is that the trainers who are involved are not suspended by the ORC. WEG and the owners of the other tracks are in their full right to deny anybody (right or wrong) access to their property. That is the law.
Per Henriksen
Norwood, Ont.
I live in Maryland and wager on Woodbine/Mohawk races at the Laurel simulcast. The betting public is the most important element in harness racing. Without the betting public, you wouldn't have drivers, trainers or owners. Any racing authority owes its first allegiance to the betting public.
John Keen
Catonsville, Maryland
I think the ORC and WEG are doing a great job. There's no question the tests are positive - the big question is where did it come from. Hats off to WEG and the ORC; time will tell who was right but it's the betting public who always get shafted.
Lewis Saunders
Toronto, Ont.
There is a little item that I have not heard mentioned by the anti-ORC-decision group. We horsemen all live by a rule that states, "All trainers are responsible for the horses that they train".
Don Canning
Shediac, N.B.
If a policeman is accused of a crime, he is generally relieved of his duties until the matter is resolved. School teachers accused of inappropriate conduct are not allowed to be anywhere near a student until the accusations are disproved. Reputations are damaged even when the accused are ultimately found to be innocent. About the only thing to be said for such a system is that the public is protected. Protecting the customer/bettor who fuels the industry requires that trainers with positive tests be excluded until a full investigation is completed. What is absolutely essential is that the investigation be completed in a thorough yet timely manner so that all interests are best served.
Bernie McGarry
Burlington, Ont.
As far as I am concerned WEG and the governing bodies concerned are protecting their customers, the horses, and the industry as a whole and that means you and I. I'd suggest we let them do their jobs to the best of their ability.
Kevin Siever
Swift Current, SK
Any opinions and views expressed are those of the writers, and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Trot Magazine or Standardbred Canada.