Vol. 555 No. 5
101 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the terms of the transfer of responsibility for the horseracing and greyhound industries from the Department of Agriculture and Food to his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19091/02]
Both horseracing and greyhound racing are forms of sporting activity which enjoy widespread popular support throughout Ireland. As such, they have many issues in common with other forms of sporting activity, such as demands for investment in improved spectator facilities, regulatory issues, etc. Accordingly, the Government decided that it would be appropriate to bring them within the remit of the Minister of the Government with the overall policy responsibility for the sports sector. SI 297, entitled Horse and Greyhound Racing (Transfer of Functions) Order, dated 18 June 2002, gave effect to this decision. Specifically, the order makes the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism responsible for the legislation governing the operation of both the horse and greyhound racing industries, which were previously the responsibility of the Minister for Agriculture and Food. For example, I am now responsible for controlling and managing the horse and greyhound racing fund, which guarantees funding for both Horse Racing Ireland and Bord na gCon. In addition, I appoint members to both boards and I consult with both bodies on their strategic plans in accordance with the strategic management initiative of the Government.
Responsibility for the National Stud remains with the Minister for Agriculture and Food. I will arrange to have a copy of the statutory instrument forwarded to the Deputy.
