Vol. 515 No. 1
64 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Finance the terms of any offer of financial assistance he has made to the Irish Horseracing Authority and the Turf Club to encourage a merger of the two organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5264/00]
I am anxious that the horse racing industry should agree to establish a new governing structure that would achieve desirable rationalisation, efficiencies and otherpotential improvements in the overall operation of Irish racing as a whole.
Following my initiative in this matter, I understand that talks have already begun between the Irish Horseracing Authority – IHA – and all the relevant industry bodies including the Turf Club, the racecourses, the on-course bookmakers, the trainers, the owners and the breeders.
While I understand they have all responded reasonably positively at this stage – and furthermore that some progress has been made – it may take some time more for firm proposals to emerge, although I understand that it is expected that by April the IHA may have made an interim assessment of the prospects for bringing about the suggested changes.
The changes, if and when agreed, will necessitate corresponding changes in the existing financial provisions to support racing. These will be considered in more detail at that stage, but the objective will be to ensure the continued optimum development of the industry in the interests of all its participants.
