The Ontario Harness Horse Association (OHHA) appreciates the support of Jim Lawson and Woodbine Entertainment Group (WEG) with their recent call to action regarding contacting local politicians. OHHA has always advocated for members to speak to their elected officials in order to educate them on the importance of the horse breeding, training and racing industries in terms of employment and economic impact.
“We have worked diligently over the years meeting with politicians at all levels and from all parties,” stated Jim Whelan, President of OHHA. “While most politicians appreciate the local impact that the horse industry has on their home ridings, most lack an understanding of the significant employment and economic impacts that these agricultural industries have on both the Province and the Country.”
OHHA has recently requested that Ontario Racing redistribute the purse funds that were allocated for the lost racing opportunities in December and January 2021 similar to what was provided during the initial shut down in March, April and May 2020. “Those purse funds are allocated and should be distributed to the owners of horses that have lost earning potential due to the shutdown,” said Whelan. “We will continue to pursue a solution that addresses the significant financial and mental impacts that this closure has had on our industry. The closure, which was originally announced as a 28-day period, could very well extend beyond that and we are well aware of the struggles that the vast majority in the industry are facing.”
The Government of Ontario has made recommendations regarding out of country travel during this lockdown period, including quarantine after returning from outside Canada. OHHA strongly recommends that industry participants abide by the recommendations for the health and safety of the people of Canada, especially the participants in the agricultural community of horse racing.
Contact information for elected officials is posted online, with Provincial MPPs contact information available here and Federal MPs here.
Please feel free to contact the OHHA office if you need assistance at 905-854-6442.
(OHHA)