John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

In assenting at its meeting on 4 July to the publication of the Dalton report, the Government also approved my proposals for the implementation of the main recommendations made by Mr. Dalton. These address, inter alia, the need for the creation of an independent doping control structure for the regulation of greyhound racing; a comprehensive review of existing legislation governing the operations of Bord na gCon to bring legislation into line with best current practice; changes concerning the tenure of the chairman and members of the board, with each now to be restricted to a maximum of two terms of five years in the case of the chair, and three years for board members; and an increase in the size of the board from seven to nine members.

It is my intention to progress the drafting of amending legislation as rapidly as possible. I will engage fully with the board of Bord na gCon in carrying out this change agenda and I am certain I will have its full support in this process. I will also request the board to review its corporate governance procedures and to address issues of low staff morale, which were also highlighted in the Dalton report.

The implementation of the report's recommendations will be of benefit to the greyhound industry, bringing it in line with best current practice for State boards, and will bring about a greater stability in this important sector. I am grateful to Mr. Dalton for conducting his inquiries in a sensitive and thoroughly professional manner.

I express my gratitude, and that of my Government colleagues, to Mr. Taggart for his many years of service to the greyhound industry. As Deputies will be aware, Mr. Taggart has advised me that he will step down as chairman of Bord na gCon with effect from tomorrow. His outstanding achievements in transforming the greyhound industry will long be remembered.

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