Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

On the same point, I am astonished at the reply of the Minister. The Minister has called into question the animal welfare bona fides of the Irish greyhound industry. The Minister's reply will further undermine the capability of the Irish greyhound industry, which provides massive employment the length and breadth of the country. The reply of the Minister has brought into question the capability of the Irish greyhound industry to act under the 1958 Act in regard to animal welfare. That is an appalling statement about an industry that is prized in the country. The industry has brought much recognition to the country and brings tourism to this country. It also creates many jobs. I am astonished at the reply of the Minister. Perhaps the Minister will revert to me on Report Stage about the statistic he mentioned about dogs put down. I asked the Minister what percentage of greyhounds make up the dog population in the country. The Minister must have that information available and we hope to have it provided to the House. There is no point in throwing out statistics if the Minister does not have the full information.