I propose to take Questions Nos. 728 and 729 together.
Horse Racing Ireland is a commercial state body established under the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act, 2001, and is responsible for the overall administration, promotion and development of the horse racing industry.
The case made for the reappointment of the CEO in this case related to the short and medium term challenges facing the thoroughbred sector and the delivery of HRI’s strategic plan, the specialist skillset and performance of the individual in question and his membership on a number of prestigious international racing bodies. An open competition has not been advertised for this post. CEO contracts have previously been extended in the case of Teagasc and Bord Bia.
The appointment of the Chief Executive Officer must be made by the Board, subject to the consent of the Ministers for Public Expenditure and Reform and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. There is no question whatsoever of a CEO being appointed without the consent of the board.