Sheffield boss John Gilburn believes an appointment of Ian Lavery MP as the next chairman of the Greyhound Board of Great Britain could open a new chapter for the industry writes Greyhound Star editor Floyd Amphlett.
The position is vacant following the December departure of Maurice Watkin as UK racing finds itself short of several directors at the organisation responsible for the governance, regulation and management of the industry.
The vacuum came about due to the expiration of the contracts of the independent directors following the Board’s first four years in operation – all were renewed after the first two years.
Gone are Sir Gordon Duff, Director of Regulation Toms Shields, and the chairman. Bob Stott stepped down due to deteriorating health.
Gilburn believes that an opportunity for the greyhound industry to arrest its malaise has arisen, and he believes the Wansbeck MP Lavery is the ideal candidate for the senior position.
Gilburn said: “In my opinion, we desperately need a political figure to head the industry. The two biggest issues facing us are possible changes to animal welfare regulation, and the on-going situation regarding off-shore betting including the failure of betting organisations to contribute to the BGRF.
“Ian is a highly respected political operator with all the right connections in the corridors of power.
“Secondly, he is a passionate greyhound owner over many years with Harry Williams. Quite frankly, he ticks all the boxes.
“I have spoken to Ian and believe he could be interested in the chairman’s position, given certain perameters.”
The position was advertised for the first time within the last week, along with other independent directorships, though Lavery will not be submitting an application at this stage.
He said: “Firstly I should say that I am flattered to have been considered. The position does interest me, but given on-going events, I would not be willing or able to apply for the job in the immediate future.”
Gilburn responded: “I believe the timing is unfortunate with a general election in May.
“But I don’t see that as a major problem. The company appointed to find suitable candidates have warned the process could take several months.
“There is no immediate urgency about appointing a new chairman. There is a much greater need to appoint a new Director of Regulation.”
The Star understands that certain GBGB directors would welcome Lavery’s appointment.
However given any public endorsement would eliminate them from the appointment process, none were prepared to be interviewed.
Lavery’s long time friend and trainer Harry Williams, currently recovering from a triple bypass operation, is in no doubt that Lavery is the ideal man for the job.
He said: “I can not think of anyone who comes within miles of him as a potential GBGB chairman.
“Ian has many outstanding qualities, but not least, is his absolute commitment.
“He has never done half a job in his life. If he couldn’t do the job justice, he simply wouldn’t take it on.
“The general election is approaching and he has one of the safest seats in the country – that doesn’t mean that he won’t still be out there canvassing though.
“Assuming he is still an MP after the election, he is based in London from Monday to Thursday which would mean his is superbly located to do the GBGB job.
“I know, that with his union background, Ian would insist on there being fair representation for everyone and he would make his presence felt. He is a mover and a shaker.
“I often get credit for saving Brough Park when Kevin Wilde wanted to sell the site for housing.
“I always say though, Ian Lavery was the single most important person in that campaign. He applied so much political pressure that something had to give in the end.
“For the sake of greyhound racing, which we all love, I really hope he becomes the next chairman of the Greyhound Board.”
