asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has had a meeting with the new board of Bord na gCon; and the subjects discussed at that meeting.

The Minister for Agriculture and Food met the members of the board on 2 November 1988. The meeting was an informal one which was arranged as a courtesy to the new members who had recently been appointed.

Among the topics discussed at the meeting were the position of the greyhound industry, the feasibility of obtaining State or EC aid and a review of the existing legislation governing the industry.

I thank the Minister of State for that reply. I suppose it is not necessary to declare an interest in this question — I assume there is no conflict — but just in case——

Let them out of the traps.

——a very minor interest at this stage, age overcoming the beast. Could the Minister of State inform the House what views were advanced by the board in relation to the condition of the industry? Is he aware of the fact that there are many owners and trainers who would contend that at present there is need for much investment, both on the tracks and in the industry generally for its revitalisation?

The main concern expressed by members was the falling level of attendances which has declined by approximately half since 1979. It was considered important for the board, as a source of revenue, to ensure increased attendances and betting on the tracks as well. A certain number of suggestions were proposed for the improvement of the facilities and the industry generally. In addition, the board's plans for computerisation of the tracks and their headquarters to improve administration generally formed the general import of the meeting.

Apart from computerisation and the obvious need for improvement of facilities, in particular at Shelbourne Park where they appear to be operating under Dickensian conditions at present, what other proposals were advanced? Will the Minister of State and the Government, or the Minister for Agriculture and Food be submitting any concrete proposals within the next 12 months?

This was an informal meeting at which initial proposals were put forward by the new board. I should say that they are working on comprehensive proposals at present to ensure that the declining numbers attending meetings is halted, thereby creating a better image and ensuring better facilities for the industry generally.