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

183. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on whether State financial support for greyhound racing should be withdrawn. [25585/25]

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

An important pillar of Government policy is to ensure that the greyhound racing industry achieves its maximum potential, and in so doing, contributes to economic and social development over a wide geographic distribution.

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

According to the 2021 Power Report, the greyhound industry provides and supports considerable employment both directly and indirectly across the Irish economy. It is estimated that in 2019, the industry supported over 4,000 full-time and part-time jobs in the economy. In addition, there are over 6,000 active greyhound owners. The total number of people deriving economic benefit from the sector is estimated at over 10,000. The particular importance of the funding of this industry to rural Ireland is well recognised.

Government funding, in addition to supporting the industry presents the opportunity to optimise return for its investment, leading to a flow of income through many levels of the economy. This provides widespread benefits for our society. The sector is also crucial in driving a geographically balanced economy throughout our country.

The future of the industry is dependent on a strong governance platform and on the industry having the highest standards of integrity and welfare founded on a strong regulatory system, and continued Government support is contingent on Rásaíocht Con Éireann meeting these requirements.

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