asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of the importance to the economy of the bloodstock industry, including racing, in providing large-scale employment as well as exports of considerable value and the decline in totalisator receipts from the on-course betting as shown in recent returns, he will recommend to the Government that the revenue from SP offices at present accruing to the Exchequer be devoted to the Racing Board for the purpose of increasing stakes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Increased Racing Stakes.
24.
Mr. O'Malley
Revenue from betting duty is part of ordinary tax revenue and is used to finance general Exchequer expenditure. A proposal to allocate this revenue to the racing industry would have to be considered in the light of available resources and other competing demands for State assistance.
In view of the decline shown in recent years, would the Minister convey to his colleague the need for favourable consideration of this suggestion?