Tom Barry (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the delegates. It is important that the Racegoers Consultative Forum be represented on the board of Horse Racing Ireland. While the issues to do with betting revenues and so on are important and valuable, it is important to acknowledge that there are people like me who attend race meetings - my local course is in Mallow - but do not generally place bets. I do, however, spend money on other racecourse facilities such as food outlets. It is important to consider how to go about attracting racegoers who are not necessarily passionate or well informed about the sport but who might well enjoy a day at the races as a social event in itself.

Regarding media rights, we are all aware that social media have changed the way people interact. Would the delegates consider a scenario where the industry might approach media rights issues as a group rather than each person seeking to make individual deals? That type of joint approach could be of benefit in selling the industry in an holistic way and allowing a collective expertise to be built.

I am not an expert on this side of the industry, but I am fascinated to hear the delegates' insight. It is important to have fresh thinking in considering these issues. Senator Pat O'Neill, for instance, spoke about attracting young people and encouraging them to embrace the spirit and excitement of the industry. There have been some very interesting suggestions made. While it is always challenging to secure agreement on every point, it is very welcome to see industry representatives coming together and discussing the issues.