Finance Minister Dr Nigel Clarke says he has invited stakeholders of the local horse racing industry to a face-to-face meeting on Thursday (May 2), to discuss concerns raised by stakeholders regarding amendments to the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) racing rules.

The JRC recently made amendments to rule 44 of its 1977 racing rules which notes that once a post-time has been made official, the race can be abandoned by the race day stewards if the starters do not press the start button within five minutes following post-time.

Several stakeholders have raised concerns about this rule adjustment and have called on the government to intervene.

Thursday’s meeting will include jockeys, grooms, trainers, owners, promoters, veterinarians, horse-care personnel, management of Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited, JRC commissioners and other stakeholders.

“The purpose of the meeting is to discuss recent developments with a view to maintaining an environment conducive to the stability and growth of the horse racing industry,” the finance ministry said in a statement on April 30.

The meeting will be held at the National Heroes Circle headquarters of the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service..