The calendar of major events for 2012, which has been just released by the Irish Greyhound Board, contains a number of changes that have already generated plenty of debate that is sure to continue for some time.

A FEW very significant changes in the management of Irish tracks were confirmed yesterday. Declan O’Halloran has stepped down from the top position at the new Limerick Stadium a little over three weeks after the first night at the track. Meanwhile, An Taoiseach’s brother Barry Cowen has been appointed to the vacant General Manager position at Mullingar.