Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Dr. Corkery mentioned Bandon, which I know exceptionally well. It is an unusual one to mention because probably two of the biggest veterinary practices in Ireland are based there. I believe the issue lies further west. There are more than 3 million sheep in Ireland. Is Dr. Corkery worried about the costs that will be put on flock owners in particular when it comes to that side of the industry? The majority of these would have rare use for a vet. Obviously, herd testing would be separate because it is not applicable. Has a cost-benefit analysis or been carried out of what this could cost the sheep industry in respect of the use of vets when it comes to prescriptions? Has it been costed? I assume Dr. Corkery is not looking at blanket prescriptions, whereby prescriptions would just be given without looking at the animals. Can he explain how he thinks this is going to work and what he thinks the cost would be for the relevant sheep farmer who, on average, would probably never need a vet?