Vol. 485 No. 4
52 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views on a recent newspaper article (details supplied); if he will have urgent discussions with the Chairman of the Irish Horse Authority in view of the possible employment consequences, particularly in County Kildare, and the possible ancillary industries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23338/97]
The position is that the newspaper article in question refers to comments made by a representative of Sheikh Mohammed to the effect that he might pull out of racing in Britain if prize-money there is not raised over the next five years to a level that will produce a satisfactory return on his investment. No indication has been given that the Sheikh or his family intend to downscale their bloodstock interests in Ireland.
The Irish Horseracing Authority is currently in the process of implementing its strategic plan for the development of the Irish thoroughbred racing industry, 1997-2001. In section 12 of that plan, the authority specifically deals with the position of owners and prize-money. It acknowledges that it is vital for the continued well-being of racing that prize-money should be substantially increased and commits itself to increasing prize-money progressively over the period of the plan.
