Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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508. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the amount of funding committed to Bord na gCon for the past five years to date in 2017, in tabular form; his plans for further funding in 2017 and 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8062/17]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Bord na gCon’s income is derived from two sources, namely turnover from racing facilities and financial support provided by the Department from the Horse and Greyhound Racing Fund, under Section 12 of the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act, 2001.

State funding provided from the Fund is pivotal to the survival and continued development of the horse and greyhound racing industries. In accordance with the provisions of the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act, 2001, the level of financial support provided to Bord na gCon is approved by both Houses of the Oireachtas.

In accordance with the 2001 Act, 80% and 20% of the monies paid into the Fund each year are distributed between Horse Racing Ireland and Bord na gCon respectively.

The funding being provided to the greyhound racing sector helps sustain a long standing tradition as the industry is part of the social fabric of our country. This funding is of particular importance to the economic activity of rural areas. It has also contributed significantly to the improved facilities now available at greyhound tracks around Ireland. The greyhound industry also contributes significantly to tourism in Ireland, having successfully identified and developed a niche market among continental European visitors.

The following table provides information on the amount of funding given to Bord na gCon from the Horse and Greyhound Racing Fund for the past five years to date. No decision has been made regarding the budget allocation for 2018.