Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, Solidarity)
Link to this: Individually | In context

147. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of injured horses killed at Irish racecourses in 2024; and if, given the ongoing suffering and death at races, he will remove State funding for horse racing. [25587/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

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.

HRI has informed my Department that the number of horses killed at Irish racecourses in 2024 was 108. This figure represents 0.32% of the 33,243 runners in the same period.

The safety of participants both human and equine is of the uppermost concern to HRI and their focus is on reducing any adverse outcomes.

Towards this goal, major improvements are certainly evident, including improved raceday protocols, in veterinary inspections before, during and after racing, increased drug testing, investment in racecourse infrastructure, ongoing training and education and other initiatives supported by HRI.

HRI receives financial support from the State through the Horse and Greyhound Racing 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.

In the context as set out I can be clear that there are no plans to withdraw State support for this sector.