Horse breeders campaign to keep tax-free status

THE bloodstock industry has launched a major lobbying campaign to protect its tax-free status, warning 2,600 jobs will be lost if it is taxed.

Industry officials met with Agriculture Minister Joe Walsh yesterday and also lobbied a number of deputies in a bid to gather support.

The flurry of activity was sparked by the Department of Finance’s confirmation that it is reviewing the tax exemption along with other tax shelters and allowances in advance of next month’s Budget.