INTERNATIONAL event rider Eric Smiley yesterday conceded that fatalities will never be eliminated from the sport, which took the lives of nine riders in 2007.

THE Irish Farmers Association (IFA) this week said it is “outraged” by the Department of Agriculture’s refusal to provide compensation for four breeders it says are at a financial loss as a result of swamp fever restrictions.

IRELAND’S Nations Cup campaign could be without the services of Kevin Babington this season, transport costs for Carling King threatening his participation.