Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister and his officials. I compliment the Minister on maintaining his Department's budget for next year at €54.2 million, particularly in these difficult times. This is money well spent and it equates to just over €2,000 per job in the industry. The latter is crucial to rural areas because all of these jobs relate to such areas. All of those present represent rural constituencies and we are well aware of the importance of the industry to our constituents. Deputy Martin Ferris used the term "the poor man's sport". There are two well known horse trainers in my constituency, namely, Jim Bolger and Willie Mullins. Even though both are at the top of their profession, they employ many people who would be regarded as being at the lower end of the scale. The type of employment for which Mr. Bolger and Mr. Mullins are responsible is crucial to rural communities. In addition, they reinvest a great deal of money in those communities in the form, for example, of sponsorship for local clubs. It is important that such assistance is provided and matters would be much more difficult if this sponsorship was not forthcoming.

Many people in rural townlands are involved with greyhounds. It may be that they own an animal or at least have a part interest in one. There is no doubt that they would like there to be an increase in the 20% funding available, if possible. I am aware that review of the greyhound industry was instigated in recent weeks. The Minister referred to the fact that the horse racing industry includes an international dimension. Are there any plans to expand the greyhound industry in order that it might attract a greater level of international interest? Some of those involved in the industry have informed me that there is a great deal of potential in this regard. What plans does the Minister have in this regard? I notice he has set a deadline of 31 March next for the completion of the review. When it is completed, will a committee or working group be put in place to implement whatever recommendations are put forward? If so, has a timescale been decided in respect of the implementation process?

I agree with Deputy Penrose's comments in respect of online betting. The legislation is overdue. Will it be introduced before Christmas and what is the envisaged timescale for its enactment and implementation?

I again welcome the fact that the Department's budget has been maintained and I support the proposal before the committee.