Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for coming here today. Some weeks ago, I spoke in the Seanad about Horse Racing Ireland. I am very supportive of our amazing horse sports industry. I thank the witnesses for the parts they play in that. Sadly, we had the "RTÉ Investigates" programme. People, both urban and rural, including the farming community, were outraged by the unwarranted violence revealed in the programme. I salute the makers of the programme. They are looking in here tonight, by the way. They are clearly conscious that this meeting is going on. Of course we have to be careful in that criminal and regulatory investigations are going on and we cannot undermine these in any way. I will make my remarks keeping this in mind. We do not know the extent of the surveillance undertaken by the makers of the "RTÉ Investigates" programme or how they were assisted internally or externally by other parties. Clearly, they engaged and had access to a number of premises and places. We do not know how much more information the makers of the programme have. There may very well be a follow-up investigation or further evidence may come to light. I welcome the fact that an investigation is going on; that is really important.

We have a wonderful industry and an obligation to protect it in terms of both rural development and international reputation. We hope that will continue. We have a challenge about what is to happen to horses that finish a life in sport or whatever. That is a challenge that is coming out of this.

From the Department's point of view, I want to be careful about what I say but it is a disgrace. It would not be tolerated in any other sector. I do not know what ministerial or departmental investigations are going on but serious questions have to be asked of staff in the Department of agriculture. In the private sector, if someone had a role as overseer, inspector or investigator and failed as dismally as the Department appears to have failed, they would be sacked. It is about accountability. People have to consider their positions in the Department of agriculture, quite frankly. I want to get that message out loud and clear. After all these investigations, some people have to accept they failed and look at the door. That is an important point to make.

Mr. Sheahan appeared before the Committee of Public Accounts and clearly accepted under cross-examination that he had responsibility for the welfare of animals and that it was within his remit. That is not in dispute. He volunteered that to the Committee of Public Accounts. What is his view, on reflection? I am shocked that he is shocked. He told the committee today that if he had not seen the footage, he would not believe it had happened. He is a professional and is saying that. Is he seriously telling us that at no time did he have any idea or suspicion something like this was going on?