16 Tracks
The greyhound racing industry in the Republic of Ireland is regulated and promoted by the commercial semi-state body the Irish Greyhound Board (IGB). There are currently 16 IGB licensed greyhound racing tracks in the country. As of February 2013, there were 4,280 greyhounds in the pool of racing dogs.1
In the Republic of Ireland the greyhound racing industry receives government funding through the Horse and Greyhound Racing Fund. Between 2006 through 2014 just over €100.10 million will have been paid out to Bord na gCon (the IGB) from this Fund.2
A greyhound falls while racing at Curraheen Park. (Curraheen Park)
Irish greyhounds arrive in Macau, China. (Anima Macau)
Caged dogs at a greyhound kennel in Ireland. (Greyhound-Data)
Puppies bred for racing in Ireland. (Greyhound-Data)
Emily the greyhound was a former racer found abused and abandoned. (The Irish Sun)
Protesters against greyhound racing at the Curraheen track in Ireland. (Ban Blood Sports)
The majority of greyhounds racing in Ireland are bred in the country. In 2013, there were 2,736 litters registered in the Irish Greyhound Stud Book, a decrease of 36% since 2006.3
The IGB has Racing Regulations that include rules for betting and prize money, doping policies and requirements for racing officials.4 Additionally, the Irish government passed the Welfare of Greyhounds Act in 2011 that sets standards for certain greyhound breeding operations and general welfare requirements for housing, transport and record keeping.5
Wagering on greyhound racing is legal in Ireland. In 2013 the turnover, or amount bet by gamblers, at the IGB licensed tracks was € 28 million.6 Since 2006, the turnover has declined by 55.6%.7
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