Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Fair enough, but this issue may need to be examined.

Another issue needs to be raised, namely, the number of horses without books. While that has been addressed to a certain extent, there have been major problems. Various groups made proposals to the Government to try to resolve the situation and reduce the number of horses in question. Will the Minister of State ensure that this problem is addressed? Large numbers of horses were roaming around forestries and wild bits of land. In fairness to people in the horse industry, they tried to tackle the problem. Some opted for killing, but the issue was that a bit of paperwork was preventing people from acting. The situation is falling into line, but we must devise something that addresses those horses that have not been covered historically.

The horse industry is worth a serious amount of money, as is the greyhound industry. Many people go to greyhound tracks during the week or at weekends. In some parts of the country, greyhound tracks are struggling. Breeders near me are committed to the game. Will the Government give them as much help as possible?

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