Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 March 2017
298. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason for the closure of Harold's Cross greyhound stadium; the action proposed or required to facilitate early reopening, in view of the concern expressed throughout the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12718/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraBord na gCon is a commercial state body, established in 1958 under the Greyhound Industry Act, 1958, chiefly to control greyhound racing and to improve and develop the greyhound industry. Bord na gCon is a body corporate and a separate legal entity to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The operation of greyhound stadia is a matter for Bord na gCon.
As I have stated in previous replies, the Indecon Report, 'Review of Certain Matters Relating to Bord na gCon' identified a number of assets to be disposed of by Bord na gCon's to reduce its level of debt, among these was Harold's Cross Stadium. In the context of the Indecon Report, Bord na gCon has already disposed of the old Henry Street Head Office in Limerick.
On 13 February 2016 the Board of Bord na gCon took the decision to cease greyhound racing in Harold's Cross, with a view to initiating a sales strategy. I understand from Bord na gCon that this was a very difficult decision. While this development is very regrettable, Bord na gCon's opinion, which is in agreement with the recommendations in the Indecon report, 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 Stadium, a few kilometres away, and that all 12 staff at Harold's Cross Stadium will be offered redeployment.
