Mary Henry (Independent)

I am not happy with this section because it allows the authority to pay such sums as it considers appropriate to such persons as it considers appropriate out of moneys advanced to it. There is no definition of the words "such persons as it considers appropriate". In view of the present situation regarding the payment of €250,000 to the Irish Open golf championship this should be examined. The money is not being paid to Portmarnock Golf Club which does not allow women members, but to those promoting the Irish Open. Are they really the appropriate persons to receive State money? We will find ourselves in the same situation with this authority which could also pay money to such an organisation. The promoters of the Irish Open are going to use facilities, the policies of which are not in accordance with equality legislation.

I heard the Minister explain on radio that if a woman took a case against Portmarnock Golf Club, she would probably win under equality legislation. How would the Minister feel if Portmarnock Golf Club could exclude black or Muslim men and the Irish Open was still to be played there? I realise it is an important championship and good for the promotion of golf in Ireland. However, how good is it for Ireland's image that some facilities here are segregated? Would the Minister have allowed the money to be given if it was to be paid to a club which excluded black or Muslim men?