Mr. John Treacy:

Yes. On a percentage basis, more than 50% of our testing is out-of-competition testing. The Deputy is correct that it is by far the most effective type of anti-doping testing. We also carry out blood tests out of competition. Our testing programme is rigorous. We have an advantage in that Ireland is a small country as it is more difficult to hide. As part of the programme, the athletes have to give us their whereabouts. We have an hour a day when we know we can test these athletes and we use that information.

On an international comparison, our level of testing is around 3%. We funded some research last year that helped uncover some international positive tests in the past. We are at the cutting edge and work very closely with the World Anti-Doping Agency. Our staff on the anti-doping side are highly regarded. Dr. Una May is highly regarded on the international scene and would have been involved in previous Olympic games and world championships for the World Anti-Doping Agency. We ensure the balance is more towards out-of-competition testing because, as the Deputy rightly said, it is more effective.