Harness Racing Industry Gets Financial Boost

Nova Scotia's harness-racing industry is getting a $375,000 boost from the provincial government to help the three facilities plan for the future.

The announcement provides $100,000 to each of the three race tracks -- Truro, Inverness and North Sydney -- to assist with infrastructure and operations. Funding is also being provided for an independent economic assessment of the provincial harness-racing industry.

"Harness racing has a long and rich history in Nova Scotia, but today the sport faces many challenges," said Premier Rodney MacDonald. "This funding will help with day-to-day operations and capital expenses. As well, there is an opportunity for an economic assessment to see what the industry can do for a more sustainable future."

There are more than 600 harness horses and 500 horseowners in Nova Scotia. The three tracks also board horses throughout the year. Over the past three years, the number of horses has increased while race attendance and wagering has decreased.

"We want to give the harness-racing industry a chance to revitalise. The industry has a wonderful opportunity to develop a business-development strategy that works for them," said Brooke Taylor, Minister of Agriculture.