Racing: A major barrier to the structuring of Horse Racing Ireland was removed yesterday when the Turf Club agreed to the extra seat created on the HRI board by the Government.

The senior steward Ray Rooney reported after a special meeting that "there was widespread anger and disappointment at the way the Turf Club and the INHS committee have been treated".

However, he added: "Our members are cognisant of the importance of securing the additional funding and are prepared to set aside their deep felt grievances for the overall betterment of the racing industry."

That decision was reached after Rooney had updated the Turf Club members about a December 7th meeting with the Minister for Agriculture where Rooney had expressed his displeasure at the alteration to the original make up of HRI.