The Government has been asked for £26.5 million to help thoroughbred exports grow by 30 per cent by 2004.

The Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association (ITBA) yesterday submitted a development plan to the Minister for Agriculture, Joe Walsh, which is intended to cover all aspects of the breeding industry.

The ITBA are requesting the £26.5 million to be included in the forthcoming National Development Plan on the basis that the industry itself provides £9.4 million.

The proposed £36 million investment would, the ITBA argue, create 200 extra jobs, and 5,000 farmers who breed on a small scale would benefit from a dedicated training package.

ITBA research has shown that 83 per cent of breeders in Ireland own no more than two mares, with the vast majority being parttime participants in the industry.