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"Why is Donegal not at the races?" 18.07.08

A LOCAL senator has asked why Donegal is not at the races in terms of the multi-million euro horse industry that has brought economic fortunes to regions like Galway and Killarney.
Senator Cecilia Keaveney called on all interested parties to come together and examine what is needed to bring an official horse racing track to Donegal.
“Racing has become a big sport in Ireland with almost 1.5 million people attending racing events throughout the country in 2007. Research also shows that about half the Irish population have been racing at some point and that attendances are rapidly diversifying from the young to the old," said Senator Keaveney.
The Moville-based senator has also met with officials from Horse Racing Ireland who, she said, would like to meet parties
Horse racing at Burt earlier this year.
keen to develop such a proposal in the county. "There is, however, the issue of the initial investment required which Horse Racing Ireland say is a minimum of €25 million. This is a substantial figure," added Senator Keaveney.
“I would encourage all those parties interested in developing the horse racing industry in the county to work towards presenting a proposal to Horse Racing Ireland. Given the growing interest in the sport that is taking place throughout the country, I have no doubt this would be a sporting tourism investment that would yield benefits to local communities also," she said.
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