Nicky McFadden (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)

The greyhound racing and breeding industry sustains 11,000 full-time and part-time jobs directly and indirectly, many in rural communities. It contributes an estimated €500 million into local economies around the tracks, which are spread throughout the country. An independent review completed by Farrell Grant Sparks, FGS, in 2009 states that there is adequate direct and indirect evidence to support a strong argument that the greyhound industry constitutes a major source of employment, gives rise to considerable domestic and export earnings and is a key driver of substantial economic activity, especially in rural areas.

There are a total of 17 greyhound tracks licensed by Bord na gCon. Of these, Bord na gCon owns Shelbourne Park, Harold's Cross, Cork, Tralee, Waterford, Youghal, Limerick and Galway and also has a 51% share in the Mullingar track, which is my local track. I know the track well and going to the dog races is a great night out.

The greyhound breeding industry is very successful with over 75% of greyhounds now running in the UK being Irish bred. Bord na gCon is a commercial State body established under the Greyhound Industry Act 1958, chiefly to control greyhound racing and to improve and develop the greyhound industry.

Responsibility for Bord na gCon transferred to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in May 2010. Bord na gCon is responsible for leading and directing the activities of the company. Bord na gCon has repeatedly confirmed its commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare in the greyhound industry. Deputies will be pleased to note that Bord na gCon has demonstrated its commitment to greyhound welfare and in this regard a number of initiatives have been put in place to ensure consistent and appropriate welfare standards are met. These include the attendance of veterinary surgeons at racing and at sales trials, employment of personnel to oversee greyhound welfare and the employment of a welfare manager. Bord na gCon is also an active member of the International Greyhound Forum, an international group involved in the establishment of welfare standards and education. A guide to best practice for the care and welfare of greyhounds is available from the Bord na gCon website.

Bord na gCon established a welfare committee in July 2009 which seeks to identify ways in which the welfare of greyhounds can be improved. In addition, Bord na gCon also operates the retired greyhound trust which focuses on the adoption and re-homing of greyhounds when they finish racing. In 2011 it launched a campaign, which is ongoing, to promote greyhounds as pets. My father used to race greyhounds and they were always retired to homes and they are the best pets; I agree with Deputy McLellan on that point. Officials of Bord na gCon investigate any complaints received regarding greyhound welfare and follow up on any issues of concern that arise through their everyday interaction with trainers or owners either on the racetrack or elsewhere.

Any proposal involving Bord na gCon engaging with the greyhound industry in China would have to give due consideration to animal welfare matters. Ireland attaches a high priority to animal welfare and, alongside our EU partners, is working to promote better animal welfare internationally so I welcome the Minister of State's introduction of this legislation. It is well tailored to enhance the welfare of Irish greyhounds.

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