John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

There are five recommendations under the heading of corporate governance, all of which we will seek to implement. In so far as the whole question of doping is concerned, the report makes it clear there should be an independent agency governing this matter. We are taking that recommendation on board. With regard to the issue of morale within Bord na gCon, naturally following all the traumatic events that have occurred since the dismissal of Mr. Tynan, there is a difficulty. However, it is a difficulty we shall resolve. Prior to this difficulty erupting, morale in Bord na gCon was quite good. The board of Bord na gCon, together with the Government, has succeeded in transforming the industry right across the country. Much of this was due to the work of the chairman and the board and could not have been done without substantial Government funding, particularly since 2001, when the horse and greyhound racing fund was set up.

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