Batt O'Keeffe (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

No one doubts Deputy Deenihan's genuine interest in the successful operation of greyhound racing and his anxiety to ensure an independent, autonomous body is given responsibility for dealing with doping and illegal drug use in the industry. It is of paramount importance that the integrity and regulatory structure of greyhound racing is of the highest calibre. It must be seen to operate in an open and transparent fashion, whereby everyone is treated equally and fairly in accordance with clear, unambiguous, published criteria and procedures.

As a member of the Committee of Public Accounts in April 2004, I addressed issues around the anti-doping procedures in place in Bord na gCon at the time. I was concerned then, as I am now, that the most effective and appropriate systems are being operated in this important sport and industry. However, as the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism has already pointed out, this Private Members' Bill, introduced before the Dalton report has been finalised and considered by the Government, is not at all helpful. It is unfair and unkind. It is uncharacteristic that he, as a Kerryman, would try to use the opportunity to pull the rug from a respected public servant such as Tim Dalton.

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