Mr. Michael Finn:

I will deal with some of the rural issues that have been raised, such as the treatment of animals and the difficulties we have encountered in the past. Sometimes there is a breakdown in communication between the various organisations. Maybe they do not fully understand which of them should be taking the lead in what is happening. We are improving and communication is taking place. Perhaps it is the case that we do not deal with these issues until they surface. I know from some of the exchanges we have had that communications has been a problem in the past. I think we are enhancing it and getting the message out to our own people that we need to take it seriously. We need to work with the other agencies. It is only when we work in that way that we can get really successful outcomes. We are working closely with various organisations across the country, including the ISPCA. It is important that such relationships are fostered because they are the key to achieving successful outcomes. Regardless of whether the social problems we are dealing with involve human beings or animals, my perspective is that the most effective way of achieving success is to work with agencies. I am not sure whether Mr. Todd has had any difficulties in this area. I know from my time working in the northern region that there are many cross-Border issues, for example involving cattle smuggling. I found that there was a great relationship between the PSNI and the Garda as they sought to make sure investigations were carried out.