Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As someone who has a closer affinity with the other half of the horse industry it is lamentable that the sector cannot benefit either from the horse racing fund or the betting fund because it does not apply.

I thank all the members for a lively discussion. There does not appear to be any disagreement that the horse racing and greyhound racing sectors are vitally important. If these industries were allowed to continue unsupported I imagine the report on the economic development of rural areas the Minister, Deputy Hogan, has commissioned would lament that fact. There is general agreement on the need to get the betting tax extended to a broader base. Whether it should be increased from 1% is an issue on which we should have an honest discussion to ensure that when we meet to agree a fund we can say without doubt that it is matched by direct revenue. Apart from PAYE, VAT or other ancillary taxes collected from those employed in the sector it should be directly funded, euro for euro, with revenue from the betting industry, which is available to be tapped into.

Is it agreed that the joint committee recommends there should be no further debate on the motion by Dáil Éireann or Seanad Éireann? Agreed. That concludes our consideration of the motion.

I propose that a report on the proceedings of today's meeting will be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas. Is that agreed? Agreed. We will suspend for five minutes to allow the withdrawal of the witnesses. We will resume on the pre-Council agriculture and fisheries meeting, which is particularly important for the fishing industry. We will resume just after 3.30 p.m. We have to conclude our consideration of this part of the meeting by 5 p.m.