Bord na gCon has statutory responsibility for the development of the greyhound racing industry. In that context, it runs commercial operations in a number of greyhound stadia, including Harold's Cross.
In 2014, against the background of reducing income for the organisation through the recession and a significant debt burden, my department commissioned an independent report into certain matters relating to Bord na gCon, including its financial performance and prospects. That report provided a road map for the sustainable development of the greyhound sector, and in that context recommended a number of asset disposals, including Harold's Cross, in order to reduce the debt burden.
Bord na gCon has informed my Department that having considered the matter, and having regard to the recommendations in the Indecon Report, it has decided to cease racing at Harold's Cross and initiate the sale of the Stadium in order to reduce its debt levels and increase its capacity to provide support and assistance to the industry.
Greyhound racing has been part of the Dublin landscape for many years and Bord na gCon inform me that it is their intention that this continues to be the case and that it is further developed.
Shelbourne Park has been operating 3 nights per week, which is limited use for a property in this location and with the facilities on offer. There is sufficient capacity in Shelbourne Park to accommodate the Harold’s Cross racing schedule there. One cannot lose sight of the fact that Shelbourne Park is located only 2.2 miles from the Harold’s Cross site.
While the closure of Harold's Cross Stadium is very regrettable, its view is that there is no other option if the burden of debt on the organisation is to be reduced in any meaningful way.
