Tim Lombard (Fine Gael)
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In that regard, I want to acknowledge the Senator's kind thoughts towards me but that is another story. I am very serious now though. We were here in 2019 and I will openly say that I thought the industry was on a cliff edge. I was very fearful for where it was going to go. I compliment Ms O'Brien and the board for what is after happening. Major changes have been made, particularly with regard to traceability. That element was a key issue. The Chairman, Senator Paul Daly and other members spoke about the bovine issue and how bovines had a traceability system put in place since the foot and mouth crisis. Literally within a few months, the same system was put in place here. That gives confidence in the system and in the industry. It has been the game changer. I compliment the CEO and the board on their hard work in moving that forward.

Will the witnesses give us an indication of how the board is set financially at the moment and how they believe it will go? Obviously, it has been under financial pressure with regard to sponsorship in particular. Will they give us an indication of any sponsors coming on board and how we are funding our major events including the Laurels? Will they also give us an indication of the interaction with the public? Figures as to how things are going were mentioned. An indication was also given that community groups, GAA clubs and sporting organisations are now again having sporting days and renting out the complex for race nights. Where does the board see the figures going?

Will the chairman comment on whether he believes the press has been fair to the industry over recent weeks, months and years with regard to the coverage of races? In some local newspapers in particular, you do not see any coverage. What work could be done in the short to medium term to ensure that local papers in particular pick up on major sporting events such as the Laurels in my part of the world? Does he believe there is a gap there? What message needs to be sent to get some support from the press on this issue?