Greyhound Industry

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 March 2017

Thursday, 2 March 2017

Ceisteanna (315)

Kevin O'Keeffe

Ceist:

315. Deputy Kevin O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the exact date on which the decision was made to close Harold’s Cross greyhound stadium; the person or body that specifically made this decision; when he was notified of this decision; if he was given prior notice of its closure; and if he expressed any views to those persons who took this decision before this information became public, in view of the fact that his Department is a shareholder and provides funding to the greyhound industry. [11118/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

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.

On 13th February the Board of Bord na gCon took the decision to cease greyhound racing in Harold's Cross. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine was informed of the decision after the Board meeting.

While this development is very regrettable, Bord na gCon's 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.