Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I know the Deputy has some form in terms of questioning the outcomes of court proceedings. I do not propose to trespass on the findings of the courts on such matters in recent days other than to acknowledge the outcome. There is separation of powers, which the Deputy may not wish to recognise but I do.

There are 13 members of the board of HRI and the board is representative of all sectoral interests, including workers in the industry, race courses, trainers and owners. The board is so constructed as to ensure there is an adequate voice available to all the interested parties. The Deputy has come in here and unfairly and without substantiation cast aspersions on the most recent appointees to the board. I think the Deputy should reflect on this. She has made scurrilous, spurious and unsubstantiated against two board members and I do not intend to dignify them other than to say that the appointments were made in accordance with the Public Appointments Service and in accordance with the criteria laid down.

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