Dr. Kevin Smyth:

The Department was always aware of what was Bord na gCon was doing in respect of welfare, for example, fostering, rehoming and the like. The difficulty is that welfare work has not resonated with the public. Following the RTÉ programme, there has undoubtedly been a much greater emphasis on welfare, which is welcome, but it would be unfair to say that little or nothing had been done. A great deal had been done. The message simply did not resonate or get across.