Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

The recommendation put forward by Deputy Deenihan was rejected in the other House. It applies not only to Gaelic footballers but also to other sportspeople such as cyclists, boxers, rowers and other elite athletes not benefiting from the provision made in the Finance Bill 2002 under which professional sportspeople were rightly granted a major income tax break. This, however, should apply equally to all other elite athletes. Former Taoiseach Charles Haughey, when Minister for Finance, granted a major tax concession to artists which has been successful, although I would argue some aspects of it should be reviewed. Nonetheless, it has encouraged a number of writers and scriptwriters to stay in Ireland to develop the arts. Last year, that measure cost some €37 million. The recommendation proposed for sportspeople would only cost some €9 million and would affect 5,000 to 6,000 athletes across the spectrum of sports. It should be reconsidered.

When I met recently with the Gaelic Players Association in Buswells Hotel, I was amazed by the number of Fianna Fáil Deputies and Senators present, agreeing with the players, throwing their arms around them and posing for photographs. Those Deputies then ran to the Dáil to vote against the amendment. I hope their Seanad colleagues do not do likewise. I am aware that we cannot change a financial Bill in the Chamber today and can only make recommendations. However, when this comes to a vote, I hope Fianna Fáil Senators will look into their consciences, if they have any, and vote with their hearts. This would ensure that sportspeople who give great enjoyment during the year — I realise the Minister is a big sports fan — would get some tax credit to offset the yearly expenses they incur in providing entertainment for us.