John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

We have been trying to develop the issue. The Secretary General of my Department, Mr. Phil Furlong, had a recent meeting with Mr. Pat Toal of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in Northern Ireland on the possibility of identifying structures which could be created to achieve a joint approach through horse and greyhound racing. We are continuing with our discussions, but the current stalemate in the political arena has prevented any major initiative. If political movement occurred, it would make it far easier for us to develop the industry jointly in the North.

I am not for one moment suggesting that we would take over the sports there. All I am asking for is a joint approach.

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