The Central Ontario Standardbred Association has issued an official comment on the deal which has been reached between the Woodbine Entertainment Group and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

The contents of the COSA release appear below.

COSA extends congratulations to Woodbine Entertainment Group on their recent agreement with the Ontario Government that ensures horse racing for 2013 and 2014. The announcement is welcome news following the months of uncertainty in the industry.

COSA thanks Ted McMeekin, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, his OMAFRA panel: Elmer Buchanan, John Snobelen and John Wilkinson, as well as Jim Lawson and Nick Eaves from WEG, for their tireless efforts throughout these negotiations.

This is a first step towards the sustainability of our industry after March 31, 2013 when the Slots At Racetrack Program ends.