Verona Murphy (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In a 2017 report, it was estimated that more than 5,000 were in employment either directly in the greyhound industry or as an indirect result of it. The greyhound sector is worth more than €300 million to the Irish economy and the funding provided to it comes from a betting tax that is used to fund both greyhound racing and horse racing. The sports are therefore self-financing. With the employment figures I have mentioned and the industry's value to the Irish economy, it appears the funding is money well spent. In County Wexford, Enniscorthy Greyhound Stadium is the hub of the sport, with race meetings taking place twice a week to the enjoyment and entertainment of its many supporters and participants.

The sport of greyhound racing has received no shortage of criticism from opponents in recent years. There are some in this Chamber and beyond who want the sport banned for a variety of reasons. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous and greedy people in every walk of life and every industry. The sport of greyhound racing is no exception, but great strides have been made in recent years to root out those who are involved in the maltreatment of dogs and to introduce programmes to help rehome and support retired dogs.

It is important to note that my general support of the greyhound racing industry will not prevent me from holding officials to account or from ensuring funds made available to the industry are being spent and managed appropriately. As a member of the Committee of Public Accounts, I recently had the opportunity to question members of Rásaíocht Con Éireann about a variety of issues. I will continue to do so at every opportunity. I believe the vast majority of greyhound owners and trainers are animal lovers and treat their dogs brilliantly. I hope the industry continues to thrive and improve. I will continue to support the Irish greyhound industry but I will also continue to ensure full transparency and accountability in respect of how the Greyhound Racing Ireland is doing things.

I echo Deputy Kelly's call for someone with sectoral experience to be appointed as CEO of the board. We need to stabilise the position. There has been far too much turnover. For the good of the sector, the good of the dogs and the good of everybody involved, that would be an appropriate measure.

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