Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

It has been requested that this matter go before committee where it and all of the surrounding issues can be debated. The regulations are designed to increase the aggregate limit of the fund. The money in the fund is reinvested in the industry to develop its infrastructure. There are 25,000 jobs in this industry. I have no difficulty with the report being brought back to the House for debate. Whatever people think about the sport or greyhound racing, it is now a sophisticated industry which is responsible for the livelihoods of a substantial number of people. As regards how the money is spent, the transparency and regulation of the fund, etc., such matters will be dealt with by the committee and, as normal, it will send its report to the House, at which point it can be debated. The Whips can work out the details in that regard.

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