John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

I understand Bord na gCon would have had a meeting or meetings since this controversy arose. There will not be an interim report but a final report, which I trust will be comprehensive.

On the question on the term of the chairman, Bord na gCon was set up on 28 May 1958 under the Greyhound Industry Act 1958 chiefly to control greyhound racing and to improve and develop the greyhound industry. Its functions are set out in the legislation, which provides that the Minister appoint the chairman, who is to remain in office at the pleasure of the Minister. It is implicit that the Minister would have to have a reason to remove the chairman, if deemed necessary.

The report is being compiled by Mr. Dalton and I am awaiting it. I have explained that I will act upon his recommendations and I feel sure the House will have an opportunity to discuss the report, if it so wishes, following consultation with the Whips. I would not like to pre-empt or prejudge the report and I look forward to receiving it.

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