Bobby Aylward (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

According to information I received recently, the costs of the Irish Greyhound Board accounted for 16% of overall turnover ten years ago and now account for 44% of turnover. That is an increase of approximately 300%. What is the reason for it? Interest in the industry is declining and there is less racing taking place, yet the board's costs have increased from 16% to 44%. No one wants jobs to be lost but I have been told there is a lot of overstaffing. With no disrespect to the employees, they work from Monday to Friday and are not there when the races are on. Is there a need for such staff? Does the entire industry need an overhaul when we see the costs of the board account for nearly 50% of the overall costs? It is a personal question but one that needs to be asked.