Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

No Member will disagree this valuable industry must be supported. It provides not just 28,000 jobs but the unquantifiable benefit that it internationally showcases Ireland. I am concerned, however, as are those involved in the industry, as to how it will be funded. Many times the Minister has claimed he is examining new ways of funding. I note in his Department's submission on the cuts proposed by an bord snip nua that great savings would be made in the new scheme for the horse and greyhound fund. How are these savings to be effected? What new taxation scheme will be introduced? Has any progress been made in devising a new scheme to capture Internet betting. Will new legislation be introduced for a new horse and greyhound fund?

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