asked the Minister for Finance if in relation to the accounts of the Racing Board for the year 1955-56 he will state (a) to whom the board paid the sum of £128,907 18s. 7d. in respect of contributions towards stakes, (b) who destributed this sum to the various recipients, and (c) whether any receipt, or detailed particulars, were obtained by the board in connection with the distribution of this sum; further, if, in view of the provision of £55,000 for contingencies, he will state whether a scheme for the welfare of stablemen and apprentices is contemplated.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Racing Board's Accounts.
As regards (a), (b) and (c) of the first part of the question, the Racing Board is a statutory body with power to apply its funds in accordance with Section 16 of the Racing Board and Racecourses Act, 1945, subject to my approval in respect of certain special purposes of expenditure stated in the Act. Payments of contributions towards stakes do not require the approval or the consent of the Minister for Finance.
As regards the last part of the question no such scheme has been submitted by the Board for my approval and I am not aware that the Board has any such scheme in contemplation.
I would accordingly suggest that the Deputy might consider addressing his enquiry to the Secretary of the Racing Board.