Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)

——-that the Minister of State is a great supporter of the greyhound industry and possesses great knowledge in respect of it. He knows only too well the importance of the Bill. However, that is politics and another story. We will come to it later.

If ever a sporting success story existed, it is the greyhound industry. I am not involved in it. On a number of occasions, however, I was present at meetings at the new Galway greyhound track and it is a most pleasurable experience. I noticed all different types of people, families and communities were out for a good evening's entertainment. It is becoming a huge conduit for the collection of funds for various causes throughout the country. The Galway track, under its excellent managerial team, does extremely well and I see a great future for it. I could not help but think that some of our colleagues, particularly those in the Green Party, are, based on what they stated earlier, opposed children playing "ring a ring a rosie".

It was pointed out that everything that happened in this industry was good, with the exception of one matter. The national profile and image of the sport has increased and it is now affordable to the most ordinary working man and woman, which is important. The number of greyhound breeders has also increased. Many of the families traditionally involved and extremely successful have been joined by others. Many young people are involved.

Although I do not know whether it is correct, I am informed that doping occurs in some shape or form. I do not know the extent to which that is the case and I do not make a case one way or another. The industry would not be as successful were it not for the robust and good chairmanship of Paschal Taggart. Surely, in the interests of Bord na gCon, it would be most normal and natural for an independent body to transparent results. It should test dogs by employing the methods of the flying squad, with no opportunity, high up or low down, for tampering. It would be seen by the public as the cleanest sport of all. The only way we will arrive at that is through an independent testing facility, about which there is nothing unusual. This Bill goes no further than seeking to deal with that specific matter.

We know that we will be beaten on the floor today, which is unfortunate for the greyhound industry. However, I guarantee the Minister of State that whatever about the Dalton report, a comma will not be moved when the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism introduces his Bill. The Bill before us will stand as a monument to good sense by Deputy Deenihan and it will be seen as such by the people within the industry. All that will happen is that many people will ask why the Government did not accept this Bill when it knew it was watertight.

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