Anthony Lawlor (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Mr. Moloney referred to the racing that took place last weekend at the Curragh and Leopardstown. I agree that the product on offer was excellent, as reflected in the crowds it attracted. There were lots of students who had free admittance and a range of reciprocal initiatives with other race tracks. There were large numbers of people in attendance who were willing to spend money. It was an excellent weekend's racing.

Mr. Fox referred to the Minister's power to make three appointments to the board of HRI. The big three in terms of who is putting money into the industry are the sponsors, the media and the punters, but none of these is represented on the board. Perhaps the Minister might review this when he comes to make his appointments.

In terms of encouraging more people to attend race meetings, maintaining the situation whereby the tax does not apply to on-course betting would offer a small incentive to the punter.