Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I do not really care because I have taken the opportunity for consultation on this matter. As I indicated previously all the organisations and individuals involved put their views and I am awaiting the consultative committee who will advise me on this matter. I will make further announcements over the next two to three weeks. I agree that cost is an issue and on that basis and because I am not happy with the regulation I may introduce other aspects into it. One of the issues presenting difficulties for all of us is that the exemption list is not being dealt with prior to the full implementation of the directive. There will be no changes up to 1 January 2007. In the interim I will examine the issues of competent authorities and of education and I will take the cost factor into consideration. I will also take the black market into consideration. This is a situation of which those of us living in the Border counties are acutely aware. To make a practical and balanced decision, I will take into consideration many of the views expressed by Members on both sides of the House and by all those involved.

There will be no change up to 1 January 2007 except for intramammaries with which I will deal in the next two to three weeks following the receipt of recommendations from the consultative committee. I will also reflect on a number of practical and pragmatic issues that I hope will address the balance between supporting the cost factor for the farmer and the health, safety and welfare of the animal and of the consumer.

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