Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)

I concur with my colleague, Deputy Olivia Mitchell. This is of tremendous importance to the entire industry and those involved in establishing this scheme must be congratulated because it has done a power of good for the image of Irish racing and the associated industry. Does the Minister agree there is much misinformed comment regarding rich people receiving money? This measure protects employment in areas where it would not exist otherwise. I refer to rural areas in particular. This industry is highly mobile and the fear is always that unless one can retain one's stallions in Ireland, the mares will not be brought into the country. Consequently, this industry could be destroyed overnight. As both the racing industry and the breeding industry are important, I urge the Minister to ensure the renewal of this scheme. As Deputy Mitchell has suggested, other schemes should be considered to ensure that our breeding industry is not affected in any way.

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