O’Leary: We will continue to support Gordon after lapse

RYANAIR boss Michael O’Leary – whose Gigginstown House Stud has dozens of horses, including double Grand National winner Tiger Roll, which is trained by Gordon Elliott – came out in defence of the Meath man yesterday.

The outspoken businessman said Mr Elliott has his full support after a ‘grievous lapse of judgment’.

Here is his full statement: ‘Eddie [O’Leary, brother] and I were deeply disappointed by the unacceptable photo which appeared on social media over the weekend. The care and welfare of all our animals comes first with all our trainers.

‘Sadly, from time to time, our horses suffer injuries and/or fatalities and we expect all such cases to be treated with the care and attention they deserve.

‘We have always found that animal welfare comes first, second and third at Cullentra. From the facilities, to the brilliant team of people led by Gordon, our horses are trained with no expense spared for their development, welfare and care. We accept that this photograph was a grievous but momentary lapse of judgment by Gordon, and not in keeping with our 15year experience of his concern for, and attention to, the welfare of our horses.

‘We all make mistakes, and what is important is that we learn from them and ensure we do not repeat them. We accept Gordon’s sincere, profound and unreserved apology and we will continue to support him and his team at Cullentra, as they work to recover from this deeply regrettable incident.’

‘We all make mistakes’