The provincial NDP say they are disappointed there wasn’t further support for thoroughbred horse racing at Marquis Downs.

In a letter written to Minister of Parks Culture and Sport Laura Ross and Minister of Trade and Export Jeremy Harrison, the NDP say this was the only thoroughbred racetrack in Saskatchewan and the only one in Canada that didn’t receive provincial funding. NDP MLAs Matt Love and Aleana Young point to cultural and economic benefits, saying gone with this sector will be good jobs, significant investment and Saskatchewan families.

According to an estimate from the Saskatchewan Horse Benevolent and Protective Association between 1000 to 5000 jobs will be impacted in the agricultural sector.  This includes trainers, feed supplies, veterinarians and breeders.

The NDP call for modest provincial funding and say if the government acts now these jobs could still remain in Saskatchewan.

The NDP made the appeal Friday after the announcement by Prairieland Park that it would be cancelling horse racing permanently to explore the option of a professional soccer team in Saskatoon.