The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies is the latest entity to let its views be known regarding the OMAFRA Panel’s report on the Ontario horse-racing industry's transitioning from the slots-at-racetracks program after March 31, 2013.

To view the OMAFRA Panel's report, click here.

To read the various responses from the industry, please click the corresponding links which appear below.

• Woodbine Entertainment Group
• Western Fair District
• Hanover Raceway
• OHRIA

In terms of the OAAS release, the organization's general manager, Mark Beaven, stated that he is urging the government to "immediately enter into direct discussion with the industry" to develop support.

The contents of the OAAS release appear below.

October 31, 2012

The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) wishes to acknowledge the OMAFRA Panel’s Final Report on horse racing. Ontario horse racing is the second largest agricultural sub-sector in the province and the OAAS is very concerned about the negative impact on rural Ontario by the potential loss of this industry. The OMAFRA panel has spent considerable time and effort on developing their recommendations, and the OAAS wishes to thank them for their efforts.

With respect to the report, the OAAS has some concern with the panel’s primary assumption that the total pari-mutuel wagering handle will remain stable despite the significant reduction in the number of racetracks and dates proposed. More research needs to be conducted on this specific issue as it goes to the very survival of the industry.

“I don’t think you can simply assume that wagering dollars that were made at one racetrack will automatically transfer to another racetrack,” states OAAS General Manager Mark Beaven. “The entire system and financial realities behind wagering are very complex. Considering that it goes to the very foundation of the panel’s recommendation, there needs to be another form of support while the panel’s assertion is tested. I urge the government to immediately enter into direct discussion with the industry to develop this support.”

In regards to the recommendation of the necessity of racetracks being accountable and transparent in their operations, the OAAS pledges support. Agricultural Societies, including those that conduct racing, are already regulated by OMAFRA to a standard, and they are willing to work with the government to ensure that those standards meet future requirements.

Lastly, the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies believes it can play a significant role in securing the future of the racing industry in Ontario.

“Horse racing played a significant role in the sustainability of agricultural societies across the province. Our members are now in a position to return the favour,” states Beaven. “The OAAS has access to the knowledge and expertise to work with industry, this government and future governments to ensure that racing survives.”