Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

While we are talking about connections, I should mention I was born in the maternity hospital in Limerick. I am minded of the statement that being born in a stable does not make one a horse.

I want to discuss two issues with the Minister separately, if she does not mind. The first concerns the decision on wood pigeons, which I am glad to note the Minister has reversed. There is a perception among some people that those who shoot and, to a lesser extent, those who fish do not particularly care about nature. In fact, they are often the people who care most about nature and conservation. Notwithstanding that the Minister has reversed her decision, I ask her to publish the advice upon which that decision was based. It is important that we see exactly what the position is, lest the issue evolve or return next year. I also ask the Minister not to make this type of change in future without entering into consultation in advance, where possible. I appreciate that emergencies sometimes occur and consultation is not possible, but perhaps this was not one of those situations.

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