On today's edition of Trot Radio, Ontario Harness Horse Association President Darryl MacArthur talks about the recently released standing committee report on recommendations for the ORC

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The 28-page report, published last Monday on the Legislative Assembly of Ontario website, made five key recommendations and those points are outlined below the audio controls.

Episode 68 - Darryl MacArthur on ORC Standing Committee Report

Running Time: 9:36

Audio Format: MP3 audio

Host: Norm Borg

ORC's Mandate - Regulation and Adjudication (pp. 3-7 of the review)
1. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure should undertake a review of the scope of the Ontario Racing Commission's mandate, with attention to industry regulation and adjudication. The Ministry should identify and resolve areas of conflict between these respective areas of responsibility. The review should account for the Commission's mandate to ensure the safety of individuals and the welfare of horses, and to protect the interests of clients participating in wagering.

ORC's Mandate - Commercial and Financial Involvement (pp. 7-9)
2. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure's review of the scope of the Ontario Racing Commission's mandate should define the ORC's position with respect to private sector dealings, taking into account that the ORC's paramount responsibility is the protection of the public interest.

Horse Racing and the Slots at Racetracks Program (pp.10-13)
3. All racetracks participating in the Slots Program should be required to provide live horse racing, given that they are complementary and inseparable entertainment venues, and acknowledged to be mutually dependent. In the event that a facility is not in a position to offer horse racing, the Minister should review the Prescribed Lottery Scheme Site Holder Facilities Agreement and decide on the racetrack's gaming option(s).

Border Racetracks - Financial Challenges (pp. 14-15)
4. As part of the province's proposed gaming strategy, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure should consider the financial circumstances confronting Ontario racetracks located in close proximity to provincial and international borders. These tracks should be reviewed as a distinct group, with the objective of developing a long term initiative to enhance their viability.

Proposed Provincial Gaming Strategy (pp. 15-18)
5. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure should complete its consideration of the Strategic Planning Panel's report (Sadinsky Report) of June 2008, in conjunction with the preparation of the proposed provincial Gaming Strategy, on a priority basis during 2009-2010. As part of this process, the Ministry should address the matters identified by stakeholders and summarized in this report.