The Rockliff Liberal Government has taken strong action to protect the integrity of the racing community and strengthen animal welfare outcomes, because we take these matters extremely seriously.
"The Government instigated the independent Murrihy Review in March this year, and since this time Mr Murrihy has been diligently reviewing specific racing integrity and animal welfare matters, in line with the review's Terms of Reference," Minister Ellis said.
"This is critically important work that will drive the next phase of the Government's response to ensure integrity in the racing community.
"Mr Murrihy has confirmed that he is still on track to deliver a report by 31 August, and that this report will respond and make recommendations for the majority of the Terms of Reference, including policy matters relating to Office of Racing Integrity functions and complaint management, animal welfare matters, and the proposed Tasracing Code of Practice for equine welfare and management.
"However, Mr Murrihy has requested an extension so that matters that have arisen as part of the investigations relating to Terms of Reference 1 and 2 can be delivered following the conclusion of that investigation process.
"Terms of Reference 1 and 2 are investigation-related matters and it is extremely important that Mr Murrihy completes his investigation and that procedural fairness is applied to all parties,"
"While we are very keen to make sure this matter is concluded at the earliest possible date, the government has accepted Mr Murrihy's request for an extension.
The Government looks forward to Mr Murrihy's interim report which will be delivered to Government by 31 August and we will consider that report closely, before releasing it with a formal interim response in September.
The Rockliff Liberal Government is a proud supporter of Tasmania's racing community and the thousands of people who are part of it.
Minister Felix Ellis said that racing is a way of life, supported by proud, passionate Tasmanians, loved by families for decades, and most importantly delivering jobs in regional Tasmania.
