Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2017
669. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason for the closure of the Harold's Cross greyhound stadium; the action taken to prevent this closure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9727/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraBord na gCon has statutory responsibility for the development of the greyhound 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 Stadium, in order to reduce that debt burden.
I understand that Bord na gCon, in view of its substantial debt burden, having considered the matter and having regard to the recommendations in the Indecon Report, 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.
While this 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. I understand that its intention is to transfer the Harold's Cross racing schedule to Shelbourne Park, a few kilometres away, and that all 12 staff at Harold's Cross will be offered redeployment.
