The future of Enniscorthy Greyhound Track is uncertain following the Indecon Report published last week, however, when the matter was discussed at today’s monthly meeting of Wexford County Council there was unanimous support for the track from the members and the Council is to engage with the Minister, the Irish Greyhound Board and Enniscorthy track management in an effort to ensure the continuation of the sport at the Ross Road, Enniscorthy.

The matter was raised by Cllr Aidan Browne who said the track was part of the fabric of the county for years, while Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllr Kathleen-Codd, said her family were involved with greyhounds for three generations and closure would be a serious situation for Enniscorthy. “The best of greyhounds raced there, and the track is of vital importance for the economic, social, cultural and tourism life of Enniscorthy.” She felt that if the track was to be let go it would have a huge impact on Enniscorthy town and district, the county and the South-East.”

Cllr Pip Breen agreed, and said it was a vital infrastructure for the town of Enniscorthy and he referred to all the party nights, charity and benefit nights that took place there over the years. Cllr John Fleming said it would be a huge loss to Enniscorthy, Cllr John Hegarty suggested contacting the Minister on the matter, and Cllr Cathal Byrne gave some figures; 386 greyhound owners in the county and 31 people working on the track, which he described as “privately owned” and “profitable.” He concluded; “Common sense has to prevail here.”

Cllr John O’Rourke said he lived beside the track. “A lot of families will be affected and a life that has been there over the years since the beginning will be disintegrated. He noted that “down the country is being targetted and emphasised that action must be taken.

Cllr Pat Barden rejected the idea of closure. “We should not accept this proposed action. There is too much history there.” He suggested a meeting with delegates and a review of what is happening.

Cllr Jim Codd said the track would be seriously missed and closure must be resisted at all costs.

Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr Michael Sheehan, took a show of hands and it was unanimously agreed that the Council engage with the Minister, the Irish Greyhound Board and Enniscorthy track management to discuss the closure plans and see what can be done.