John Cregan (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)

We travel in strong numbers to both venues to support the various events that take place. Thanks to this Minister and Government we look forward to a new, state-of-the-art greyhound racing track in Limerick. We have a fantastic tradition of greyhounds in Limerick including trainers, breeders and many thousands of participants through the years. We have difficulties with facilities and it is not attractive to people to fundraise there. However, it is still strongly supported in an effort to ensure the decision by the Minister will happen, which has occurred and is welcome. Although the Minister was criticised and castigated recently by a failed politician and self-appointed journalist, the people of Limerick welcome his commitment to the greyhound industry in Limerick by ensuring we will have a new, state-of-the-art track. I distance myself from remarks that have been made by a self-appointed journalist who several times tried to get a mandate from the people of east Limerick and failed miserably. That speaks for itself.

It is an opportune time to speak positively about the industry. I listened to people tonight talk about the membership of Bord na gCon. It is important to take the opportunity to encourage the Minister and impress on him the importance of appointing a woman to Bord na gCon. Gender balance is important in keeping with Government policy.

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