Yole Stables’ domination of Tasmanian harness race meets in the last two months highlights the complete failure of Racing Minister Felix Ellis to deal with key findings from the Murrihy report.
Minister Ellis was handed the report in November and claims he was “shocked” by its findings – which include appalling conduct by Ben Yole. If the Minister’s words are true, it is beyond belief he didn’t immediately do something – anything.
In the more than two months since the report hit the Minister’s desk, Ben Yole has entered at least 662 horses across 15 race meetings – an average of 44 horses per meet.
With almost total control of many race fields, it’s no surprise Yole-trained horses have taken home winnings of more than $415,000 in that time.
Minister Ellis has known Ben Yole had been found to abuse animals and fixed races for more than two months – and has done nothing. He clearly decided it was fine for Mr Yole to roll on with business as usual.
The Murrihy report has laid bare how successive ministers, Felix Ellis included, have failed to do what’s required to uphold any integrity within the racing industry, not to mention in their obligation to protect the welfare of the horses and dogs within it.
Along with a clear absence of leadership or sound judgement, Felix Ellis has shown – once again – the Liberals have no intention of cleaning up the racing industry.
There’s absolutely no question that Ben Yole must be immediately suspended, and given this latest failure Felix Ellis should brace himself for the return to Parliament.
