Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

If I may, Chairman, I wish to make a number of introductory remarks to thank both the Chairman and the joint committee for facilitating the pre-legislative scrutiny on this Bill within a very good timeframe, which I appreciate. As the Chairman has outlined this is a unique initiative and action in respect of the closing down of a sector which emanates from a commitment in the programme for Government and emanates from very significantly changed attitudes in society as to the keeping of what would otherwise be wild animals specifically for fur or skin. It is a correct and welcome move but undoubtedly has very significant impacts for the three remaining fur farms in the country. They have run their operations in compliance with all of the rules and regulations and in a very efficient, effective and compliant manner and it is very important that that is stated. The fact that this decision has been taken is no reflection on them.

It is also very important to acknowledge the fact that this means an end to their livelihood and what has also been a way of life for them. Some of these farms have been pioneers from the very outset in the setting up of this industry in the country and this decision is not their choice but is one that has very significant implications for them.

I also want to thank the team within the Department Agriculture, Food and the Marine for their work on this Bill, and to thank Mr. Greally and Mr. Kinsella who are joining me here today. I also acknowledge the engagement that there has been with the fur farmers and their representatives over the past period of time in what has been a challenging issue.

Pre-legislative scrutiny is an important step here because it enables in the first instance the fur farmers to also have a public forum in which to engage with the joint committee, to raise questions and also for feedback and engagement with me as Minister in the framing of this Bill. I look forward to engagement today to explain the rationale behind this Bill and our approach to it and I will bring both Mr. Greally and Mr. Kinsella in with their technical expertise on some of these matters. I will also take on board the feedback from the members of the joint committee.