Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

This debate on the greyhound industry, which has been taken for granted in many respects, is welcome because the industry has not received much coverage in the House. We were fortunate that two Ministers in the previous Government, Deputy Walsh and Mr. Charlie McCreevy, were familiar with the greyhound racing and horseracing industries and they brought forward legislation to secure funding for both industries. This resulted in significant investment in both industries in recent years which has been reflected in attendances at meetings. The people have spoken with their feet.

I was a greyhound owner in the past and my family was involved down through the years in the industry. I like a night at the dogs. In recent years, the issue of clerical abuse has received a great deal of publicity. However, as a former altar boy, my experience of the church was much different. I was an altar boy to a priest who loved both horse and greyhound racing and I had the pleasure of travelling around the country to attend horse and greyhound race meetings and even the odd coursing meeting. I learned a great deal and my experience with this priest was joyous and educational. I am grateful for the education I received about greyhounds and horses.

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