Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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173. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if, in light of recent developments pertaining to the withdrawal of several racecourses from an organisation's (details supplied) proposed media rights deal with two companies, he will review the applicability of section 10 of the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act 2001, due to the infringement on the exclusive property rights of racecourse owners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25200/23]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) is a commercial state body established under the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act, 2001, and is responsible for the overall administration, promotion and development of the horse racing industry. Under Section 10 of the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act 2001, HRI has responsibility for negotiating and awarding contracts for media rights.

The arrangements for the assigning of media rights are defined by law. I am aware of issues that have arisen with regard to a proposed new media rights contract for all racecourses in Ireland. In that regard, I encourage all relevant stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure the financial interests of all racecourses and the wider industry are maintained.

There are currently no plans to introduce any amendment in respect of this legislation.