Madam, – In support of Teddy Foley’s letter of March 20th, I would make the point that, while Bord na gCon has spent wisely on capital projects over the past eight years, in contrast to with the profligacy of Horse Racing Ireland.
Since 2001, HRI has received over €430 million in direct grants from the taxpayer. During the same period €415 million has been distributed in prize money for its sport, most of it to a very select group of owners. In addition to this, HRI retains, in conjunction with the Turf Club, more than €50 million in cash reserves.
It seems incredible that the Government should contemplate continuing this level of subsidy to the last people in the country who require it. Could it be that Fianna Fáil prefers the appeasement of wealthy thoroughbred owners to the provision of medical cards to the over-70s? – Yours, etc,