Leading point-to-point players make plea with Tanaiste for urgent return

Leading point-to-point trainers Eugene O'Sullivan and Sean Doyle, along with the handlers' association chairman Gerry Kelleher and key industry stakeholder Richard Pugh, outlined the urgency surrounding the resumption of the point-to-point season to the Tanaiste Leo Varadkar on Thursday.

The meeting only lasted for seven minutes, but according to Pugh, the Tanaiste was quite receptive to the case which was put to him. Covid-19 restrictions are being reviewed and are expected to be updated on April 5.

Pugh said: "The fact that the Tanaiste facilitated the call and listened to the plight of the point-to-point industry during such a busy time is a positive thing. They outlined to us the challenges the country faces and, in the context of outdoor activities being relaxed in the next phase, I think they will do their best to look favourably upon us.