asked the Minister for Finance why the subsidy has been withdrawn from Thurles racetrack; and if he will take immediate steps to have the subsidy restored in order to maintain that amenity for traders and patrons of that race-meeting.

I take it that the Deputy has in mind grants paid by the Racing Board. Under the Racing Board and Racecourses Act, 1945, such grants are a matter for the Board itself. I understand from the Board that a number of racecourses have been a cause of financial anxiety to it over a period of years. Thurles was a case in which, following a general review of such racecourses earlier this year, the Board decided that, subject to any further representations the Racecourse Executive might make, financial support would have to be withdrawn. The Board, I am informed, has arranged to meet a deputation from the Thurles Racecourse Executive shortly in order to make a final decision in the matter.