merrion street

Tom Hayes TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine today attended at Thurles Greyhound Stadium where the feature race was the Thurles Fresh Milk Tipperary Cup.

Speaking at the event, the Minister highlighted the immense contribution made by greyhound racing industry, noting that Bord nag Con estimates the industry is “responsible for sustaining in excess of 10,000 full and part-time jobs directly and indirectly, many in rural communities and injects an estimated €500 million into local economies”. The Minister also took the opportunity to pay tribute to the sponsors of the event, remarking that “Thurles Fresh Milk have been generous sponsors of the Tipperary Cup and Thurles Greyhound Stadium for the past twenty years. They are to be commended for their generous sponsorship of this event again this year and their sustained commitment to Thurles Stadium down the years”.

Minister Hayes complimented the very high standard of facilities afforded to patrons of Thurles Stadium pointing out that “this wonderful venue is over 63 years in existence and was refurbished in 1998 and an extension added in 2011.” The Minister noted “The vision and determination shown by the Board of Directors here at Thurles Stadium has ensured that this magnificent stadium, standing in the heart of the sporting community of the town, will continue to host many great evenings of greyhound racing into the future.” Acknowledging the important role played by Bord na gCon, the Minister said “Much credit must go to Bord na gCon for their investment in the industry and all those involved in the greyhound industry in sustaining the industry against the backdrop of the current economic environment. Co-operation amongst all stakeholders in the industry is vital to the future success of this much valued industry and sport”.

Minister Hayes concluded by wishing “all those associated with the greyhound industry and in particular those associated with this stadium every success for 2013 and beyond”.