A proposed merger between the Irish Horseracing Authority, Turf Club, and Association of Irish Racecourses, moved a little closer to reality on Wednesday when Turf Club Senior Steward Gerry Scanlan said his organization would not stand in the way despite concerns over the plans.

Scanlan, who is also vice chairman of the Horseracing Authority, accused other authority officials of trying to absorb the Turf Club's powers and licensing responsibilities, leaving the Turf Club with only its disciplinary role.

"Nobody has complained about our management of the integrity services and I don't see why the hell anyone wants to change it," Scanlan told Racing Post.

The merger plan was put forward by Irish Finance Minister Charlie McCreevy, who has promised that racing will receive revenue from off-course betting taxes in return for merging.