Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

There are a few points I want to make on the Finance Bill. Has the Government costed the abolition of the tax relief for stallion fees, the impact of which will be considerable on the economy of south Tipperary? I refer not to Coolmore but to the many small stallion operations that have developed in that part of the country because of the success of the horse breeding industry. Other countries, France and Italy in particular, are putting pressure on the EU because of the sector's success in this country. Is this another case of the Government giving in to the Europeans on a tax relief which has been very successful?

The Minister of State, Deputy Parlon, is one of those who would support me on this and who would understand the benefits of the bloodstock industry in many constituencies, but particularly in south Tipperary. Before the Bill is enacted, will the Government put a hold on its abolition to determine whether there is a real benefit to the economy involved? Figures from various sources which I have seen prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that this investment in the bloodstock industry has been of enormous benefit, particularly to employment throughout the country.

Deputy Naughten referred to the drainage difficulties in the west. I wish to bring to the attention of the Minister of State, Deputy Parlon, the difficulties in Clonmel. He saw them at first hand when — fair play to him — he came to Clonmel.

It is all over local radio today that there is still no money coming from the Department to the people of Clonmel. I am extremely concerned about this and on behalf of the people of south Tipperary I ask the Minister of State to take the matter on board. The mayor of Clonmel and several others have just raised it on the news. There is much worry about that matter.

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