Mr. Gerard Dollard:

The figures the Deputy quoted are correct. Shelbourne Park holds races four nights per week. Any animal that races at the speed of greyhounds will be susceptible to injury. Overall, our injury statistics have reduced in recent years because of the focus we have put on track management and maintenance. If there is a racing schedule of four nights per week, with ten or 12 races per night, a risk of injury is inevitable. It is like any sport involving high speeds.

The veterinary director might like to comment further.