Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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548. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if funding will be made available to an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29416/19]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of the request for funding referred to and the proposal is being examined by officials of my Department. In addition, I have noted the funding proposal prepared in conjunction with the Five Year Strategic Plan for the Irish Harness Racing Association (IHRA), and their “addendum to Seed funding request” which outlines discussions with a Local Authority to examine the possibility for a site for a National Harness Racing stadium and training centre.

I am also aware that discussions with the aforementioned Local Authority on the matter of a racing venue are on going, and I have requested the IHRA to revert to me with details of an agreement before I make any decision on future funding for the industry. I understand that my officials attended a meeting on this matter in recent weeks.