Sir, – It is both outrageous and ludicrous that the hard-pressed Irish taxpayer is funding prize money to the extent of €50 million plus per annum, courtesy of State funding to Horse Racing Ireland (“Horse Racing Ireland criticised over transparency issues by Dáil committee”, News, January 29th).
If horse owners, trainers and punters wish to amuse and enrich themselves, they should do so at their own expense.
If Irish horses are so wonderful and sought after, then the industry should be self-supporting.
I am not aware of any rational reason why I, for one, should be paying for it. – Yours, etc,
READ MORE
HUGH PIERCE,
Celbridge,
Co Kildare.