Lynn Boylan (Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Flaherty; I really appreciate that. While the Minister is here, I will take the opportunity to discuss an issue with him. This relates to pre-legislative scrutiny of the general scheme of the animal health and welfare Bill. Would the Minister be open to meeting me and to taking on board amendments when the Bill comes to the Seanad on another area of concern in the animal health and welfare Bill? In section 38 there is loophole around young animals that are being transported in breach of domestic or EU regulations. Section 38 does not allow for a power of the authorised authorities to either sell or rehome those animals. Those animals have to be kept for the duration of the court case. This means that young pups being seized at ports and are about two years old before they can be rehomed. Not only is this bad for animal welfare, it also puts a significant cost on the animal welfare charities that are the authorised authorities. I am just flagging this with the Minister. When the Bill comes to Committee Stage, at least I will have raised it. However, I would like to meet with the Minister to discuss this. I would also like to know if he would be open to accepting an amendment to the animal health and welfare Bill on this issue.