Susan O'Keeffe (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State to the House and thank him for the thorough outline he has provided. I am glad of the opportunity to contribute to this useful debate. I look forward to the betting (amendment) Bill, which is timely given recent changes in betting practices with people using online betting facilities to avoid tax. My colleague, Senator Ó Domhnaill, asked whether the tax would be 2% or another rate. The Department will propose a rate and 2% may well be an appropriate amount.

While I am not a fan of dogs or horses, I appreciate that this is an important indigenous industry which provides employment. It is also important culturally in promoting overseas and domestic tourism. As Senator Comiskey said, as many people attend race meetings as GAA championship matches.

I hope the betting (amendment) Bill will be before us soon and that there will be no further delays. Senator Ó Domhnaill is correct to urge promptness in this respect because this is where the money ought to be coming from. State investment in this sector is welcome but there has been a shortfall, so we would like to see the industry itself contributing financially.

Some of the additional money should be used to ensure the continued safety and welfare of racehorses and greyhounds. I know that subject is very dear to the heart of the Minister, Deputy Coveney. While we appreciate the value of these industries, we should never lose sight of the animal welfare issues at the core of both of them.