GRI unveils Strategic Plan plus half-year Industry Activity news
GREYHOUND RACING IRELAND [Rásaíocht Con Éireann], the statutory body responsible for the regulation, development and promotion of greyhound racing in Ireland, has unveiled its Strategic Plan 2025–2029.
Launched at Shelbourne Park, the home of Irish greyhound racing, the new five-year strategy aims to futureproof the sport and reinforce Ireland’s position as a global leader in greyhound welfare, regulation, and industry innovation.
The ambitious roadmap sets out a vision for a vibrant, respected, and sustainable greyhound racing sector, built on four strategic pillars: animal welfare and transparency, industry sustainability, public engagement, and operational excellence.
Pat Flanagan, chairman of the RCÉ Board, said: “This plan reflects our deep sense of responsibility to the thousands across Ireland, including owners, trainers, breeders and supporters, who believe in the value of our sport.
"We are determined to uphold the highest standards of welfare and integrity while embracing innovation and transparency.
“By investing in people, infrastructure, and welfare, we are safeguarding the legacy and vitality of Ireland’s greyhound racing industry,” he added.
Tim Lucey, CEO of RCÉ, emphasised the renewed focus on measurable impact and financial resilience.
He explained: “Our strategy prioritises both the welfare of the greyhound and the commercial future of the industry.
"By enhancing our traceability systems, investing in flagship assets like Shelbourne Park, and deepening public engagement, we will reinforce confidence in our sport and ensure its sustainability for generations to come.”
Key initiatives in the Strategic Plan include the expansion of the traceability programme to integrate veterinary and welfare inspection data; greater transparency through robust welfare reporting and public accountability; and the modernisation of stadium operations, including redevelopment projects and local management empowerment.
RCÉ has committed to strengthening the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust (IRGT) to enhance post-racing rehoming supports, and the development of strategic community partnerships and education programmes to broaden understanding and participation.
The Plan also directly addresses external challenges such as changing entertainment preferences, economic pressures, and misinformation regarding animal welfare, with RCÉ committing to strong governance, clear communication, and continuous innovation.
“With the backing of our Board, the passion of our dedicated staff, and the engagement of the wider greyhound community, RCÉ is ready to lead the industry with purpose and clarity,” added Lucey.
“This plan charts a path towards a future where greyhound racing is recognised not only for its heritage, but for its progressive and sustainable direction.”
The 2025 – 2029 RCÉ Strategic Plan is available to view by clicking on the Strategic Plan link below.
Alongside the launch, RCÉ also published its inaugural Six-Month Industry Activity Report, presenting key statistics on greyhound racing in Ireland covering January to June 2025.
Lucey said the six-month report outlines the scale of greyhound racing activity in Ireland, adding that the months ahead promise further growth and strong attendance during the year-end festive season.
A total of 692 race meetings were held across 15 tracks during the first half of 2025, resulting in a total of 7,201 races. Prize money for the period reached €4,300,564.
A total of 42,628 greyhound entries were recorded, with 6,948 individual greyhounds racing.
Of those, 5,729 (82.5%) received prize money. The number of new owners entering the sport in the first half of the year was 526, while 3,737 existing owners and 295 licensed trainers were actively involved in racing.
Attendance figures reached 156,923 between January and June, despite the cancellation of 52 race meetings due to adverse weather conditions. Total Tote turnover amounted to €5,653,605, with €3,685,365 bet on-site and €1,968,240 via off-site and international platforms.
"Despite the cancellation of some meetings due to adverse weather, the mid-year figure highlights the continued public appetite for greyhound racing," said Lucey, "with major classics still to come and strong Tote figures, we are on track for a robust second half of the year.”
Welfare and integrity measures are also documented in the inaugural Industry Activity Report. RCÉ conducted 1,003 welfare inspections with a 95.2% compliance rate against the Code of Practice for the Care and Welfare of Greyhounds.
A total of 3,827 samples were taken from greyhounds during racing and non-racing phases, with a 99.33% pass rate. Race-day injury incidence was reported at 0.45%.
"There is often a misunderstanding of RCÉ’s role in regulating greyhound racing, but the facts speak for themselves,” stated Lucey.
“With a 99.33% pass rate from nearly 4,000 samples tested and 99.55% of greyhounds racing injury-free, these figures reflect our strong commitment to welfare, integrity, and high standards across the sport."
During the same period, 595 retired greyhounds were rehomed through the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust (IRGT) and partner organisations.
RCÉ employs 539 staff across headquarters, racing, welfare, veterinary, laboratory, tote, hospitality, and stadia operations.
“We look forward to the next six months and years ahead with ambition and confidence,” added Lucey. “We greatly appreciate the Government’s continued support through the Programme for Government – Securing Ireland’s Future, as well as the vital backing of our commercial partners, sponsors, owners, breeders, trainers, and the many customers who support our venues.”
