Dublin South West TD, Seán Crowe, has expressed his concern at the peculiar manner surrounding the closure of Harold’s Cross Greyhound Stadium and the haste in which the closure was announced and locked down.

The Sinn Féin TD believes that workers from the Stadium, suppliers, local residents, race goers and trainers all have legitimate questions and concerns that need answering.

Deputy Seán Crowe said:

“Harold’s Cross Greyhound Stadium has been operating since 1927 and was a much-loved track for the smaller owners and trainers.

“As someone who was born in Harold’s Cross, the Stadium was a familiar backdrop to all our lives. Going to the dogs and a night out at the dogs in Dublin parlance meant two completely things.  One suggested going downhill physically or mentally, the latter a night of entertainment.

“Harold’s Cross was a popular track for generations of Dublin punters too and clearly the greyhound racing fraternity are extremely upset about this closure. Entertainment was the primary goal, with gambling almost an afterthought with those attending.

“The Horse and Greyhound Bill will be discussed in the Oireachtas shortly and it will provide a fresh opportunity to examine the workings of the industries, and the extent of exchequer funding they receive.

“The speed and haste of the closure is disconcerting and the immediate lockout of staff has raised suspicions and concern.

“Many people who booked the venue for a Valentine’s night out will also feel aggrieved and feel extremely let down following the Stadiums immediate closure.

“Workers from the Stadium, suppliers, local residents, race goers, and trainers all have legitimate questions and concerns that need answering.

“Property development and greed continue to displace and replace entertainment facilities, historic sites, and centres of cultural expression.

“Sinn Féin will be seeking answers to the pressing questions that this closure raises. We will be demanding a precise explanation from the Irish Greyhound Board at the earliest opportunity on the events and the supposed reasons put forward for its rather peculiar closure.”

ENDS