Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)

I thank the Minister for that answer and for the other answers he gave me about this situation. I know it predates his taking office as the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and his predecessor, the then Minister, Deputy Brendan Smith, would have dealt with it first. I am delighted about what the Minister said about regarding the welfare of horses in the context of the Animal Health and Welfare Bill. I think he and I will be having a few debates about another animal, the hare, and coursing, and probably fur farming as well. On this matter, I welcome what the Minister has said.

The current position is difficult in terms of to where a complaint should made. When a complaint was made, it went to the Turf Club. It appeared that was a dead end and this gentleman was left with no other recourse. What the Minister is planning in this context is probably too late for him and, in the meantime, I wonder what recourse he has.

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