The NHA have taken note of the reports about the unhappiness of some of the industry Stakeholders. As the regulator we are very concerned about the threat of boycott and the substance of the discontent.

Over the last few months we have been made aware of a number of issues that have caused unhappiness and we have taken it to heart and started addressing a number of these issues.

We have to realise that to turn this ship around takes a massive effort. It’s not easy to correct old habits, to build a cohesive team that’s focused on addressing issues. We don’t get credit for what has been achieved, but instead we are constantly being hammered for what has not been achieved as yet. We can’t correct in a short space of time what has been left undone for many years. We therefore call for continued dialogue and interaction on these matters. This also helps us to focus and ensure that we are dealing with the pressure points. One of our biggest issues is that the internal staff have been at times subversive in undermining the change efforts.

The National Board is very much aware of the matters at hand and are not insensitive to the industry sentiment. The Board has urged Management and the Chief Executive to address the many problem areas.

So, what have we achieved thus far:

1. Finalized and started implementing a comprehensive business plan;

2. We have become more customer-centric (renewal forms abolished, simpler processes, improved problem solving);

3. We have launched an upgraded user-friendly website;

4. We have an increased sense of urgency to ensure things get done (in most departments);

5. Engaged in dialogue with Stakeholders to take some of their views on board (trainers, rules, aftercare, etc.);

6. The Rules Committee was enhanced for the first time, to include representatives from jockeys, trainers and owners;

7. We have reduced the number of non-performers;

8. We have reduced the number of staff for improved efficiency;

9. Made a number of positive changes in the Stud Book Department, however we are aware that more needs to be done;

10. We have commissioned a Senior Council opinion on how we interpret Strict Liability;

11. We had a black type race ratings review and averted any immediate further downgrades;

12. Employed a consultant to assist the trainers to give us the recommended input on the handicapping system.

Areas that are currently under development:

1. The entire Rules book needs a revamp – we will announce the process of revamping;

2. We will discuss the plea-bargaining position at the next Board meeting;

3. Amend our Rules to incorporate the opinion on how we interpret Strict Liability;

4. The way forward with respect to the Objection Appeal Board;

5. Implement a revamped handicapping system;

6. Revamping the Stud Book to ensure full international compliance.

The extent of what needs to be done cannot be underestimated given the long neglect of many of the key issues. We will try our best to use the stones being hurled at us as building blocks for success. We do not take the comments lightly. However, we cannot perform miracles overnight.

The challenge is to get our internal alignment right so that we can deal with the many issues facing us as a team. We are also acutely aware that, given our position, we will never satisfy everyone although it is disconcerting when we have such a huge group of Stakeholders who are unhappy. Of course, not all complaints and issues that have been aired have been portrayed correctly or are necessarily true.

Perhaps a better approach would be to engage the Chairman and myself in an open and frank discussion, where we can plan together instead of always opposing each other and trying to belittle and trample on each other. We will welcome this approach. I’ve had a few one-on-ones with trainers to explain our position. We need to spend our time collectively building new foundations for success and not defending our positions.