Irish jockeys' body consider new arbitration systems after Frost-Dunne learnings

The body representing jockeys in Ireland is set to explore the introduction of arbitration processes to deal with disputes between riders following the Robbie Dunne case.

Irish Jockeys Association secretary Andrew Coonan believes that an internal structure should be implemented as a potential first solution to solve disputes, rather than see riders make their claims public, as turned out to be the case between Frost and Dunne.

"I would like to think that it's a common-sense approach," Coonan said. "We're fortunate in Ireland that this hasn't ever happened where a jockey complains about another in this regard. However, it would be remiss and short-sighted of me to think that such a thing could not happen.

Andrew Coonan: 'I would like to think that it's a common-sense approach'Credit: Caroline Norris (racingpost.com/photos)

"There's a lot of negativity out of what has happened in the UK, but if we are to take a positive from it, we must try to ensure that any rider in our jurisdiction has a forum in which they can raise their concerns or complaints.

"That forum would not necessarily be a public one at first instance where the public and media would get involved. It would allow for the individuals to speak openly and freely, addressing the concerns within our own organisation."

He added: "This wouldn't be reinventing the wheel. I question myself as to why we don't have this sort of structure in place already. In any corporate structure that sort of system would be implemented.

"It's not always possible to have such matters resolved straight away, but at least it gives both parties an opportunity without the issue turning brother on brother. I'm sure when we sit down as a committee we'll look at this."

Last month it was revealed that the BHA would upgrade weighing room facilities across all British racecourses.

The PJA hit out in the aftermath of Friday's ruling that the BHA had ignored repeated requests to improve female changing facilities, saying it was "no coincidence it has only shown an interest in driving change over the last few months in light of this case".

Coonan suggested that there is not the same underlying frustration at riders' facilities in Ireland, but insisted that further progress is required by Irish authorities to improve conditions for all jockeys.

He said: "If you asked any rider in Ireland now, I think they would all agree that very good progress has been made. However, further progress needs to be made and that's the constant thing we should be working on."

Coonan also revealed that "very constructive discussions" have taken place between the IJA and Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board in relation to jockeys' complaints over a proposed increase in annual licence fees, which include a hike of up to 350 per cent for some riders.

"I think this is very resolvable with a little bit of goodwill from both sides and some practicality," he said. "We've had very constructive discussions so let's keep that going and get the issue completed so this doesn't become a major focus of division."

Read more:

Ruby Walsh: 'At times somebody has to tell someone else to sit down and shut up'

Robbie Dunne banned for 18 months for bullying and harassing Bryony Frost

BHA chief rejects 'rancid' picture of weighing room but says racing must change

'Absolute disgrace' – jockeys' body slams BHA over weighing room claims

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