At HRI, our vision is to ensure that Ireland is the global leader in all aspects of Horse Racing and Breeding, sustaining a vibrant rural industry. Our mission is to develop and promote Ireland's Horse Racing and Breeding industries, to administer and govern the sport of Horse Racing in Ireland, to cultivate and promote the highest standards of integrity and welfare.

As part of the HRI Strategic Plan 2020-2024, HRI is committed to:

• Working collaboratively with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) and Weatherby’s (Ireland) GSB to ensure that Irish racing operates to the highest standards of integrity and fairness
• Supporting the establishment of a new equine health and welfare campus with world class diagnostic and forensic services
• Ensuring that best practice in equine welfare is adopted throughout the industry

For more information on HRI’s Welfare Policy visit https://www.hri.ie/industry-services/horse-welfare/

Irish Thoroughbred Welfare Council 

In 2020 the Irish Thoroughbred Welfare Council was established comprising representatives of the Breeders, the Trainers, the Owners, the IHRB, DAFM, International Federation for the Aftercare of Racehorses and the animal welfare department of UCD Veterinary College. The Council advises the board of HRI on how best to shape policy to ensure high standards of horse care in the sector. 

The development of a Quality Assurance Programme for horse premises is underway. 

Ownership and Welfare 

Horse Racing Ireland along with the IHRB are committed to ensuring the highest possible standards of equine welfare are maintained in Ireland. The racehorse owner, trainer and those in possession of an equine have a moral and legal responsible for it’s health, safety and welfare while it in in their ownership/possession. 

It is the responsibility of all owners to ensure the aftercare of their horse has been considered and an aftercare policy has been agreed with fellow owners and the trainer.