Mr. Joe Keeling:

I will start with the succession planning. The hand-over to me took place over a three-month period prior to my start date in March 2013. Prior to March, I had meetings with the previous chairman. Part of that process involved issues regarding the chief executive's contract which were not addressed. I took it from that meeting and from my first meetings with him that the succession plan was Brian Kavanagh. When I took over in March 2013, I waited for 12 to 15 months until I was sure that I concurred with that myself. I used my experience over 40 years as director, chairman and chief executive of the Keeling Group. It was my decision and my judgment and I took the view that Brian was the best person for the job.

I took that view and I had unofficial contacts.

I believed the biggest issue with Mr. Kavanagh's reappointment was getting permission from the Minister. I had unofficial meetings with him. Members have all seen the letters. I was reflecting the informal board decision. Having been on a board for 45 years, I know when people are with one or not. I felt the board supported the view, and I proceeded with that. I believed there was no point in going to the board — this comes from my experience in a private company — until I was ready. To me, the big decision was getting permission from the Department. I focused on that. At all times, I acted in the best interest of Horse Racing Ireland.

Senator Paul Daly asked whether I would have acted differently had I to do this over again. I do not believe so. I would always have acted in the best interest of Horse Racing Ireland.