Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I accept there is an economic benefit. Are we sure it is the maximum economic benefit? We know from our previous hearings that HRI distributes that money largely through prize money. Almost pound for pound, the Exchequer funding is paid out in prize money. Look at how that money is distributed. In terms of the top ten trainers for flat all weather, it is about 50%; for national hunt, it is over 60%; and for flat, it is over 60% again.

A very small number of trainers draw down a substantial amount of the funding delivered through the taxpayer. Has an economic appraisal taken place as to whether the money is best spent to ensure the sector provides, as Dr. Smyth says, an economic benefit, is robust and distributed regionally? Smaller trainers and breeders have contacted members of this committee to say they essentially get no support. It is all diverted to the big boys through the prize funds. Has an economic appraisal been carried out by the Department to ensure the money is being well spent?