Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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A key recommendation in the report compiled by the Independent Licensed Merchants Association stated that if it is not possible to avail of a derogation then the Department needs to explore further a possible adoption of a mechanism to allow responsible persons in licensed merchants, but also pharmacists, to have a role alongside veterinary practitioners in terms of the antiparasitic veterinary medicines. The Department said that it cannot use the derogation so what actions has it taken to find another mechanism?

The committee produced a strong cross-party report that contained very clear and strong recommendations. We spoke to the licensed merchants and farmers, which resulted in all of our recommendations.

Ignoring those recommendations would be detrimental. How on earth is this system going to work when we do not have enough vets to fulfil current demand in terms of the work that is required in this State? I ask the witnesses to respond on that issue.

In terms of the thousands of jobs involved, we are in a very vulnerable, volatile situation in terms of Brexit and the affect of the Covid-19 pandemic on businesses, particularly those in rural areas. Has an impact analysis been done? Is anyone fighting in the corner of the businesses in question or is it the intention to create another cartel and put the control of this in the hands of a few, as is already happening in the beef sector? To be honest, we are fed up with this. We have had enough of it; we want change. The people and businesses in this country want change. They want fairness. It is frustrating and beyond belief that the Department did not fight that corner or carry out an impact analysis. It appears to be happy to do what the EU tells it and more, without question and or putting the case of businesses or rural Ireland to the fore. As I said, we run the risk of putting control in the hands of a few through the formation of what could be a cartel. I have nothing against vets. they do great work and are under immense pressure, but they are not enough of them. Common sense needs to prevail here. A fair resolution must be found. It is not good enough to ignore the enormous work of this committee in terms of its report. On a cross-party basis, we were all on the same page. It appears, however, that the Department is going to turn a blind to all of our work. That is beyond belief. I would like a comprehensive response on the issues I have raised.