Batt O'Keeffe
Ceist:68 Mr. B. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if he has satisfied himself with the operation of the Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Agency and the private sector input into the industry. [7676/95]
Written Answers. - Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Agency.
I am satisfied with the operation of Irish Thoroughbred Marketing. The establishment of a division within the statutory racing body to promote Ireland as a location to purchase thoroughbred horses was widely welcomed in the industry. The success of its marketing and promotion campaign is well recognised by the major organisations in the horse racing and breeding sectors. I understand that the UK and Australia have established similar bodies in response to the activities of ITM. The promotional work of ITM has contributed to Ireland's share of the main European yearling sales increasing from 22 per cent in 1991 to 33 per cent in 1994; an increased awareness in the UK of Irish bred National Hunt horses; about 900 potential purchasers coming to Ireland each year and the development of new markets in China, Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
I assume that the second part of the question relates to the financial input to ITM by the private sector. This matter is kept under constant review by my Department. I am satisfied with the relative inputs from the Exchequer and the private sector to date and projected inputs for 1995. These inputs are in accordance with the levels agreed with the Racing Board and its successor the Irish Horseracing Authority.