Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his annual report to the committee. The greyhound industry and its contribution to the rural economy in particular to small farmers is very significant. I draw a clear distinction between the greyhound industry and the horse racing industry in so far as greyhound racing is a poor man's sport, in my view. It provides employment and the greyhound tracks all over the country provide a social outlet for low income families and for people involved in that sector. I would find it very difficult to oppose subsidies because it is a very positive industry for rural communities.

The Minister states that the breakdown of the €54 million is 80% and 20% between the two sectors. He said that exports are worth €1.1 billion to the Irish bloodstock industry and €500 million to the greyhound industry. There are 10,300 jobs in the greyhound sector and 14,000 jobs in the Irish bloodstock industry.

I regard this an unequal allocation of funding. I would like to see more money going towards the greyhound sector. I note the sort of money spent on trailers, for example, in the horse breeding and racing industry and in my view there is a significant difference in the people involved in both industries.

I ask the Minister to consider increasing the percentage contribution to the greyhound industry. I would support funding being sourced from online gambling in order to take pressure off the Exchequer. I will not oppose the measure in so far as I think both those industries must be allowed to develop and flourish in our communities. I speak personally about the greyhound sector. I know the value of the sport to rural Ireland and to small farmers and breeders. I know the knock-on effect of the money - even prize money - coming back to the local communities. I am not so sure if this is the case with regard to the horse industry.