Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

I have observed the upbeat approach of the Minister to the greyhound industry and have supported him at every turn. I am amazed this appointment was made given that a number of interested bodies in the industry had made representations to the Minister. What section of the industry does this person represent? The Minister received a letter from the stud owners' representative and secretary to the industry committee, the professional trainers' representative, the chairman of the Irish Greyhound Owners and Breeders Federation, the chairman of the Dublin Greyhound Owners and Breeders Association, the bookmakers' representative and the private greyhound stadia representative. Given the Minister received such a letter expressing concern at the appointment, what aspect of the industry could the Minister then claim the person represents?

I was deeply concerned at the letter sent to the Minister on 10 March. I have fully supported the Minister's efforts to assist the industry and no one would deny that he has had an upbeat approach. Given the number of associations concerned about the appointment and the effect it will have on the board, was the Minister not also concerned? Did the Minister give an undertaking to these associations, as they claim, that he would not reappoint this person to the board?

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