Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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I thank the Chairman. I have a number of points.

First, the allocation of €80 million on an annual basis to the horse and greyhound sector is significant. I acknowledge the role that horse racing and the greyhound industries play in rural Ireland and the way the sector has been built up. State funding and support from the State has played an important role and it is important that we work to protect and enhance the development of both sectors.

It was particularly disappointing to see the committee had to involve itself in the operations of the reappointment of the chief executive of Horse Racing Ireland. I think it is important that lessons are learned. In respect of the annual allocating of funding, there is obviously an obligation to come before the committee and to seek the approval of the Oireachtas for the allocation of funds every year, but as part of that do the board of Horse Racing Ireland and Bord na gCon present a plan in their report to the Minister at the outset of the year? I know there is a strategic plan but considering the Oireachtas is asked to support the allocation of funding on an annual basis, I think it would be appropriate that they present their projections for the year ahead, an update from both boards in respect of how the funding will be used and how it is helping them meet their objectives and the development of both the horse racing and the greyhound industries.