The Irish Turf Club is to significantly enhance its drug-testing regime from next January.

The announcement comes just a week after Irish racing was rocked by the news trainer Philip Fenton faces court charges over the alleged possession of banned animal remedies, including steroids.

From next year all horses whether in or out of training will be liable for testing at any time.

This is just one of a number of measures announced by the Turf Club, all of which are aimed at strengthening its existing drug-testing procedures.

"In 2013 the Turf Club tested 3207 samples, out of which three were found to be positive," the Turf Club's chief executive Denis Egan said.

"All winners on the racecourse are tested for prohibited substances while Turf Club Veterinary Officers also visit trainers' yards and take samples from horses in training.

"The Turf Club will continue to work with its scientific experts in developing hair testing methodology with a view to its introduction when appropriate.

"The Turf Club fully endorses the position announced by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities in October 2013 that anabolic steroids have no place in horse racing and that they should not be permitted in or out of competition.

"Recent developments have pointed for the need to extend the drug testing regime, particularly into the area where horses are out of training, and also to seek new powers to enable the Turf Club veterinary officers inspect premises for illegal drugs".