Mr. Eoin Ryan:

We can expect them to be finalised quite soon.

Senator Boyhan's point on the strategy is well made. We try to emphasise that it is a living and changing approach. Senator Boyhan is correct that we are halfway through the strategy, which is traditionally an appropriate time to reflect on what in the strategy has worked and what may need to be updated. It is a well-made point and it is something we are also considering. It comes under the heading of ongoing evaluation as part of the strategy. Senator Boyhan's comment on an interim review is well made.

Senator Boyhan asked a specific question about the database operators. To some extent we are constrained by time in the opening statement. There is a lot more data and information on the Department's website on how the microchipping regulations work. I am certainly happy to send them on. We can send on more details subsequently through the clerk. To be brief, one of the conditions of authorisation of a database operator is that it must share the data it has with a larger database called Europetnet. The purpose of this is that if a lost or strayed animal is found the microchip can be scanned and entered into the Europetnet database. Those with dogs at home can enter their dog's microchip number to see it. It will state what database the dog is registered on. This enables someone to contact the database directly to find further details. There is compliance from the four database operators with this and we are satisfied.

Regarding the Senator's question about whether there are things that could be improved regarding micro-chipping regulations, there are always things to improve and we are engaging with stakeholders on that. When the micro-chipping regulations were introduced, they were quite innovative and new and are regarded as a model across Europe, but there are things many stakeholders feel could be improved so we are looking at that.