Batt O'Keeffe (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

The Government takes the view that the matter should be referred to the Select Committee on Environment and Local Government for consideration. In referring the Bill to the select committee, it would be beneficial for all sides to do so on foot of an open and constructive debate in the House. I look forward, therefore, to hearing the views on all sides and to taking the matter forward in the select committee in due course. I should add we have no difficulty with dogs because Fianna Fáil is dog-friendly.

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