Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

Speakers are correct to state that more must be done, particularly with regard to sports facilities in schools where a great deal remains to be done. In many cases community facilities are available to schools and vice versa, as often schools which have good facilities make them available to the community.

I warmly thank the Minister for his vigorous and unscripted defence of the tax relief with regard to stallions and its importance for not only the industry in Ireland, but also in Europe. While it was ring-fenced by Mr. Charlie Haughey when he was Minister for Finance in 1969, I believe it dates back to 1938. It has been in place for a extremely long time. Whether it falls into the category of a State aid is dubious. It is interesting and encouraging to note the amount of recent support coming from breeding industries in other countries, notably Britain, and a statement by a European breeders' federation that interference with the incentive would be to the detriment of Europe. The Irish industry provides a service to the breeding industry across Europe. The European Commission must lift its sights and consider this matter strategically.

I regret the attempts to make political capital on this issue. For a long time, the Leader of the Labour Party in the other House, Deputy Rabbitte, seemed to make a living out of it. That is ersatz socialism; I do not regard him as representing any form of serious socialism. However, opposing the tax relief with regard to stallions can give the impression that he is a serious socialist and that his heart is in the right place. The Minister and the Government must consider extremely carefully what they do. This is an industry in which Ireland is a world leader. It has major economic and social benefits for the country and employs many people. An extremely good case can be made to leave well alone, if it is possible. I support the motion.