Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his statement and acknowledge the importance of the horse and greyhound industries and their annual impact on the economy. The thoroughbred sector generates approximately €2.6 billion, directly and indirectly supporting more than 30,000 jobs, and the greyhound racing industry supports more than 4,000 jobs, almost all of which are in rural Ireland.

One issue I will raise with the Minister of State is animal welfare. There are always a few who treat their animals badly and cruelly and they must be ousted, regulated and banned from the sport. My hometown of Enniscorthy boasts one of the oldest greyhound tracks in the State.

It opened in 1933. I am well aware the majority of owners take great care of their animals and go to extraordinary lengths to look after their welfare in that neck of the woods. I am aware of how important the industry is to the county, from tourism to local charities that rely on race nights for much-needed funding, and the greyhound fraternity as a whole. This year, extra funding is being introduced. Will the existing 10% allocated to the animal welfare sector be increased on a pro rata basis? We would like to see this happening immediately.

Another important issue is the governance of both industries. Considering this is such a large amount of public funding, will the Minister of State point out the checks and balances in place and explain how the money is allocated at present and how this is scrutinised? For example, what are the criteria used to distribute the prize money? How come the lion's share seems to go to the wealthiest horse owners and trainers, with very little going down the chain? It is vital we have oversight when dealing with public money. We understand a review was called for and committed to last year and that an outside agency was to be appointed to carry out that review. What has happened since? We would like to see this review published in full, with robust governance and copper-fastened articles of association attached. Will the Minister of State give the date on which the review will be ready? What exact stage is it at?

We support the Labour Party amendment calling for the highest standard of animal welfare to be implemented and for a review of how best to support these sectors, particularly in rural communities.

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