Mr. Michael Sheahan:

I am probably not the best person to comment on this matter. The local authority veterinary service is under the auspices of the Food Safety Authority. I understand there have been some funding issues and that there was a threat of a funding cut, but that a reprieve had been given for some few months. However, I am unfamiliar with the details of what discussions have been under way between local authorities, the local authority veterinary service and the Food Safety Authority.