Brendan McGahon
Question:13 Mr. McGahon asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he intends to amend existing legislation so that the Racing Board will have more control over the racing industry and the Turf Club will have less influence.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Racing Industry.
I have been considering the question of amending the Racing Board and Racecourses Acts, 1945 and 1975, for some time. However, at this juncture I have not finalised my views on what amendments are necessary.
I am delighted to hear that the Minister is considering amending the Acts. Would the Minister not agree that it is anomalous that the democratically elected board, the Racing Board, have far fewer powers than a totally undemocratically elected group of people, known as the Turf Club? Does the Minister share my belief that that situation should be reversed?
I agree with Deputy Deasy. The time has come to amend the structures governing racing.
Is the Minister aware that a major report on this subject was produced by the former Senator Magnier who had some very innovative ideas in this area? Will the Minister take account of that in any changes in the legislation? Mr. Magnier did excellent work on this project.
I would prefer if there were no references to the activities of Members of the other House.
It was a complimentary reference.
That may be so, but other Members may take an opposite point of view.
I am aware of the report to which the Deputy refers and a number of other recent reports. I want to implement a system which will provide a modern structure for Irish racing so that we can compete with the best international racing anywhere in the world.
Give the ordinary man a say on how the industry is run.