Rónán Mullen (Independent)

I was struck by some of the remarks made by Senators on both sides of the House. The suggestion that a greyhound might have a chip in both ears reminds me of the story of the fellow who was regarded as being very balanced because he had a chip on both shoulders. I listened to what Senator Ormonde had to say about growing more confused as the debate continued. That is not an uncommon experience in this House. The more we debate them, the more complex the issues sometimes seem to become.

The Minister is aware that I support his attempts to establish a regime of regulation and inspection in the Bill. However, a couple of questions emerge strongly from the exchanges we have just had. Is the Minister satisfied that the regime of regulation and inspection that applies to coursing clubs and greyhound breeders, as provided for in the previous legislation, is adequate and efficient for that section of the industry? It is important that he answer that question at this point. Does he believe this new regime is necessary for the sections of the industry covered under the old legislation? If he believes this, can he explain why an exemption is provided for hunt clubs but not for coursing clubs and greyhound breeders? What is the distinction that justifies an exemption for hunt clubs but not for others? Is there any sense in which this is about revenue? Is it a case of using one section of the industry to raise the funds that are necessary to inspect another which is currently unregulated? If that is what this is about, is it fair? Those are the questions I would like Minister to answer.