Reaching crisis point: the chronic shortage of stable staff in Ireland

The Irish Racing Jobs page on Facebook has never been fuller. Last Sunday week there was a request for a person with 15 years experience in both Flat and National Hunt in the Waterford area.

The following day Norman Lee was looking for a full-time person to ride out five and a half days a week. Johnny Fogarty was seeking full-time staff on Tuesday. Ballylinch Stud requested an experienced night watch person a few hours later, while Castlemartin Stud wanted to recruit a stud hand, as did Kilbarry Lodge Stud.

On Wednesday afternoon, there was even a post from Gordon Elliott Racing looking for both full and part-time experienced exercise riders. One of Ireland's most successful stables are still seeking staff. That, perhaps, tells you all you need to know.