Dan Boyle (Cork South Central, Green Party)

If we are talking about economics, the great pride we seem to take in the Cheltenham festival represents a net loss to this country, where thousands of people go over to the south east of England to spend their money rather than stay in Ireland during the national holiday, an event we are supposed to be seen to be celebrating. Deputy O'Donoghue, as Minister with responsibility for tourism, seems to wear two hats, encouraging people to take part in a sport outside of the country while attempting to bring people into this country to spend their money. I do not know how he can square that circle. No amount of prize money from greyhounds or horses will address that balance.

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