Written answers

Thursday, 16 February 2017

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Greyhound Industry

Photo of Kevin O'KeeffeKevin O'Keeffe (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

269. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will request the Irish Greyhound Board to reverse its decision to sell Harold’s Cross greyhound track in the interest of the greyhound racing industry for Dublin and the greater area. [7908/17]

Photo of Michael CreedMichael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Bord na gCon has statutory responsibility for the development of the greyhound racing industry. In that context, it runs commercial operations in a number or greyhound stadia, including Harold's Cross.

In 2014, against the background of reducing income for the organisation through the recession, and a significant debt burden, my Department commissioned an independent report into certain matters relating to Bord na gCon, including its financial performance and prospects. That report provided a road map for the sustainable development of the greyhound sector, and in that context recommended a number of asset disposals, including Harold's Cross, in order to reduce the debt burden.

I understand that Bord na gCon, having considered the matter, and having regard to the recommendations in the Indecon Report, has decided to cease racing at Harold's Cross and initiate the sale of the Stadium in order to reduce its debt levels and increase its capacity to provide support and assistance to the industry. 

While this is very regrettable, its view is that there is no other option if the burden of debt on the organisation is to be reduced in any meaningful way. I understand that its intention is to transfer the Harold's Cross racing schedule to Shelbourne Park, a few kilometres away, and that all 12 staff at Harold's Cross will be offered redeployment.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.