Horse Racing Ireland is a commercial state body established under the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act, 2001, and is responsible for the overall administration, promotion and development of the horse racing industry.
The appointment of the Chief Executive Officer is a matter for the board of HRI, subject to the consent of the relevant Ministers. I understand that the Board has decided to reappoint the current CEO for a period of five years, and the necessary Ministerial consents have been provided.
There is no general regulation in relation to the maximum length of service of the CEO of a commercial State Body. Such provisions may be made under the legislation establishing particular bodies. Under the Irish Horseracing Industry Act, 1994 Section 3: The chief executive shall hold office on and subject to such terms and conditions (including terms and conditions relating to remuneration) as may be approved of by the Authority with the consent of the Minister and Minister for Finance.
HRI have informed me that the position of Chief Executive of Horse Racing Ireland was previously advertised in 2009.