Inquiry into race fixing allegations
Racing Integrity Commissioner Sal Perna today announced he would conduct an own motion inquiry into recent race fixing allegations.
Mr Perna said the inquiry comes after recent media reports which have raised allegations regarding instances of race fixing in thoroughbred racing generally and in regards to a police investigation of one race at Cranbourne specifically. He said the inquiry would also help to ensure the integrity of the racing industry.
“The inquiry aims to identify systemic integrity issues across the three codes, thoroughbred, harness and greyhounds, in relation to race fixing,” Mr Perna said.
”I do not believe there are widespread integrity issues within the racing industry in Victoria. However, as an independent authority with the mandate to oversee the integrity of racing, across the three codes in Victoria, I have a duty to address these allegations comprehensively".
“Today I am announcing an own motion inquiry to determine the veracity of recent race fixing allegations and to ensure that the Victorian Racing Industry is not inappropriately tainted".
“I hold the racing industry in high regard and questions over the integrity of racing must not be left unanswered.”
Mr Perna said the inquiry will commence on Monday 20 August and conclude on Friday 14 September. Findings and recommendations will follow.
“I am calling on anyone with information regarding race fixing to come forward. Information can be provided anonymously,” he said. “My inquiry will be conducted across the three racing codes, thoroughbred, harness and greyhounds, and I invite both the general public and racing industry participants to come forward from next Monday.”
To contact the Office of the Racing Integrity Commissioner, please call 8684 7776, fax 8684 7778 or email enquiries@racingintegrity.vic.gov.au
Alternatively, contact the Racing Integrity Hotline on 1300 227 225.
Thursday, 16 August 2012