Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party) | Oireachtas source

There are hugely important issues here. The point about the previous vote is that there is no way only 14 Deputies are opposed to fur farming. The next vote result will be similar. We know from speaking to Deputies from all parties who voted against our amendment that it is not their personal viewpoint.

I doubt many people choose to vote for a candidate based on attitudes to hare coursing or general animal welfare issues. It may be a factor for some people but it is not the most decisive factor for others. It is not an argument that stands up. Only a small number of people participate in the activity. We are all for individual freedoms and supporting individual rights. It would be fine if no harm was being done, but harm is being done. This is deliberate and barbaric cruelty that serves no purpose and does not offer a single job. Deputy Mattie McGrath may not have heard correctly because we did not say jobs would be lost as a result of this. No scientific evidence has been put forward to say a ban on hare coursing will diminish the jobs in the area. A more valid argument is that the more humane and acceptable alternative, drag coursing, could lead to more jobs being created in the industry. The majority of counties may begin to look at it if it is so great. I do not think it will happen but there is no evidence that jobs will be affected in this way.

I do not accept that this is about idealism. It is about a civilised society moving on and recognising that it is unacceptable that inherently cruel practices, which do not occur in the wild or naturally, are put forward in the name of sport and entertainment. Assuming the Minister does not hear our pleas this time, we will return with new Private Members' Bill and other legislation in the lifetime of the Government. There is no way we can allow this to continue.

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