Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)

The relevant section of this legislation should be re-examined and, if necessary, amended. Perhaps that can be done by changing the definitions in section 54.

The Animal and Plant Health Association has highlighted another issue, which relates to the sale and provision of certain animal medicines. Most of the people involved in this area, including many farmers, feel that if the Bill is not amended, such items will be sold by qualified veterinary practitioners only. That is unnecessary, given the nature of the remedies in question. It would also add to the costs imposed on farmers. While it is of course in everyone's interest to insure harmful and illegal substances are not sold as animal medicines, we are dealing in this regard with legitimate retailers and safe substances. The current system of operation, whereby the co-ops and others are a source of supply to farmers, has worked well. If supply is by prescription only and farmers must visit a vet, cost will be a factor and a black market will be created. This will undo much of the good work in the Bill. The Minister should reconsider the matter to ensure it does not happen.

While I am generally in support of the Bill, there are areas which may require further amendment. I may return to these during the progress of the legislation.

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