Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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215. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the board of Harold's Cross greyhound racing stadium approved the disposal of the stadium as of 16 February 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8909/17]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Bord na gCon has statutory responsibility for the development of the greyhound racing industry. In that context, it runs commercial operations in a number of 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 that debt burden.

Bord na gCon has informed me that Harold's Cross is a 100% owned subsidiary of Bord na gCon. On 13th February, Bord na gCon took the decision to cease greyhound racing in Harold's Cross.

The Board of Dublin Greyhound and Sports Association Ltd was due to meet on the 17th February to discuss the disposal of Harold's Cross. However, following requests by some directors for longer notice of a board meeting, I understand that a meeting of the board will be reconvened at a later date.