Jamaica's leading horse- racing players are disenchanted with the way the industry continues to be structured and functions, and are calling on the minister in charge, Senator Don Wehby, to implement major changes.

Already the Jamaica Racehorse Trainers' Association has voiced its feeling with a vote of no confidence in those who head the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) and Caymanas Track Limited (CTL).

A common complaint has been the high number of user fees and other financial demands sought with no consultation with industry stakeholders. Breeders, grooms and betting aficionados say that the the JRC constantly has its hands in their pockets but offers very little in return.

President of the Trainers' Association Vin Edwards has turned his fire on the chairman of the Caymanas Track Limited Pat Rousseau, making it clear that the industry is very unhappy with his approach to the concerns they have for the horse-racing industry in Jamaica. The industry is looking for a substantial increase in purses, but was only offered J$40 million a year which many deem inadequate.

Edwards cites Rousseau's lack of concern on this matter as most worrisome and questioned his ability to lead Caymanas Track Limited. In what looks like a putsch, Edwards has called for a vote of no confidence in Rousseau.

Industry players have called for the refurbishment and upgrade of Caymanas Race Track, but say this has fallen on deaf ears. They have now called on the minister responsible for the industry, Don Wehby to now intervene. Wehby has written a letter to the President of Jamaica Racehorse Association, Vincent Edwards, dated November 26, 2008, which reads: " Further to recent developments in the media by the stakeholders, I inquired with the chairman and the general manager regarding the increase in fees and fines to the racing industry. I have been advised as follows:

The Commission, following a rules review exercise which included fees and fines, signed the relevant amendments on October 30, 2008.

I have also been advised that the amendments were passed to the president of each racing association on Saturday November 1, 2008 with an indication that these would become effective December 1, 2008. The Commission has had no feedback from these associations excepting those in the media. I have asked that the Commission schedule meetings with the Association to hear their concerns in the coming week."

Speaking with Caribbean Business Report last night, Robert Taylor of Robert Taylor Racing Stables said: "Trainers need more help and at present face steep statutory deductions yet have to make do with small purses. The upkeep of race horses is very expensive and that is not being taken into consideration. This year I trained seven horses, won six races with my purses coming to just J$200,000. The industry needs help."

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