Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On amendment No. 21, the legislation ensures all interests of the horse racing industry will be represented on the board of HRI. As setting horse racing fixtures is one of the primary functions of HRI and final decisions in this regard need to be ratified by the board, I am seeking to ensure consensus. I cannot accept the amendment as it would undermine the inclusivity I seek to achieve for the sport of horse racing in Ireland.

The structure proposes that there is a standard governance arrangement involving recommendations from a sub-board being made to the main board for final decision. Any other arrangements would subvert the functions of the main board, which is carefully structured to ensure a balance of representation and public interest.

We had a fairly long discussion on this on Committee Stage when we debated whether the main board of Horse Racing Ireland, HRI, would make the final decisions, as opposed to a sub-board requiring a certain decision. The sub-board is set up by the main board and this is a standard governance procedure. We had a good discussion on it and although the Deputy has tabled the amendment, my position is valid. We made that clear on Committee Stage.

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