Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We can agree on many of these amendments. We all support animal welfare. Farmers and pet owners are custodians of their animals and want to look after them. The notion that some of us are not interested in animal welfare is disturbing because anyone who was reared on a farm or lived in rural Ireland understands that. The rural hare is a very intelligent animal. We all know about the March hare. He observes everything and is totally aware of what goes on around him. He is well able to mind himself. That is his inherent breeding.

I did not table amendments to the Bill, although perhaps I should have done so. I knew from my discussions with the Minister and his officials that the legislation is in safe hands. The Government is doing its best to strike a balance between sensible legislation and permitting sporting and leisure activities. The impact on industry and employment is also important. I do not know how much it costs to eradicate TB but it is epidemic among livestock and we have to cull animals to ensure it does not spread.

I have spoken previously about coursing meetings and so-called ill treatment of hares. Two and a half years ago a coursing meeting in my county was disturbed by so-called anti-blood sport people who released the hares and let them escape onto the motorway where they were slaughtered by traffic. They could have caused accidents. I do not know how that can be described as animal welfare.

I pay tribute to a local gun club which does great work across four parishes to promote animal husbandry and restocking grouse and other species of bird that might otherwise go extinct. I commend the Minister and offer him my support.