Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE)
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135. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of injured horses that have been killed at Irish racecourses to date in 2024, with a breakdown into type of injury and location; and if, given the ongoing suffering and death at races, he will defund horse racing. [27340/24]

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.

Details relating to racehorse fatalities and injuries is an operational matter for HRI, therefore, that part of the question has been referred to the body for direct reply.

The horse racing industry receives financial support from the State through the Horse and Greyhound Racing Fund (the Fund) under Section 12 of the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act, 2001.

This Government is fully committed to the future of the horse-racing sector, recognising the contribution made by the sector socially and economically to both urban and rural Ireland. According to the Deloitte report of May 2023 it is estimated the Irish thoroughbred industry has an annual economic impact amounting to €2.46 billion and supports direct and indirect jobs of some 30,000 people.

My Department's support is critical to the survival and continued development of the Horse Racing Industry and has allowed Ireland to develop a world class industry that has developed a reputation for excellence in all areas of the thoroughbred racing industry.

I have no plans to discontinue exchequer support for this industry.