Mr. Mark Bolger:

The Irish Harness Racing Association, IHRA, is practical in its approach. It has committed to providing to this committee a five-year business plan. It is trying to grow step by step and slowly. There is a definite opportunity for new commercial income streams. The French have already started putting money into the system. The association is not out to compete with or take income away from Horse Racing Ireland, HRI, or Horse Sport Ireland, HSI. It views itself as a distinct operation that can grow and has potential.

Biosecurity is a matter for HSI and HRI. For them, protecting it is a paramount concern. The IHRA understands this. It held three successful days, two in 2008 and one in 2015. Under controlled circumstances, I see no reason not to allow it days at a racecourse on which to operate. Let the business grow step by step. It will need funding to develop its integrity. I understand that it is seeking an investment of approximately €375,000 in this regard to help it to develop its systems, etc. Currently, it is seeking access to a racecourse. We mentioned Dundalk, which races 37 times per year. The IHRA is seeking a small number of days to grow the business and see how it goes. I see no particular financial downside but it should be done in a controlled environment to protect the horse sport industry. The IHRA understands this, which will be borne out by the reports on the trial days.