Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)

I am happy to lend my support and that of Sinn Féin to this Bill because I agree with what it sets out to achieve. It is important that the various veterinary professions are governed by legislation that takes into account the changes in their various areas of expertise. We should ensure that those who comprise the profession are properly qualified and subject to the necessary supervision.

I welcome the updating and broadening of the criteria governing registration in the profession, to take account of various changes and to include specialisations that have not been given the recognition they deserve before now. Part 8 of the Bill is of particular note in this regard because it provides for the statutory recognition of veterinary nurses, who play an increasingly important role in the profession. Everybody who has spoken on this legislation has highlighted the role of veterinary nurses. It is good that their status is being formally recognised in this Bill.

I do not believe one should object to the provisions in section 46 for the temporary registration of suitably qualified persons for particular tasks, although some people have expressed reservations about them. We hope we never again have to face a crisis similar to that presented by the outbreak of foot and mouth disease. If the circumstances of 2001 and 2002 are repeated, however, it is important that we secure the temporary services of persons who can help to contain and eliminate such a threat over a limited period. Some cross-Border provisions should be made in this regard, especially as the cross-Border aspect of the preventative work that followed the outbreak of foot and mouth disease in 2001 was noted by all public representatives, regardless of their political persuasion.

Concern has been expressed by people who are involved in, or have contact with, the veterinary profession about other aspects of the Bill, such as the provisions in sections 16 and 17 for the composition of a veterinary council, which will be charged with regulating the sector in line with this new legislation. Some people are worried that just seven of the 17 members of the council will be members of the veterinary profession. Problems have arisen in other sectors when the impression has been given that certain professions operate a system of regulation that makes it seem that they are immune from real public scrutiny. Submissions were received from the veterinary profession and discussions took place before this Bill was published. While the profession did not seek a majority on the council, it called for an increase in the number of veterinary professionals on it. Perhaps one or two extra veterinary professionals can be accommodated at a later stage.

There is a need for people who do not have a direct interest in the profession to be part of the regulating authority. That can be provided for without reducing the proportion of professional representatives to a minority. The other nominees to the council are uncontroversial. They will represent the Food Safety Authority, the Department of Education and Science and the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs. One of the members of the council will be a veterinary nurse. I welcome such provisions, which are among the positive elements of this Bill.

I am concerned by the lack of statutory representation of farmers, who are the main users of veterinary services, on the council. While there is nothing to prevent the Minister from appointing a representative of farmers as one of her four nominees, it would be better if the legislation specifically provided for such representation. I trust the Minister will appoint representatives of farmers to the council, rather than nominating a person to whom it is felt some political reward is owed for past service, but who does not bring personal knowledge or expertise to the area.

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