Mary Henry (Independent)

The purpose of my amendment was not to increase the critical mass of vets. I am grateful that the Minister has tabled her own amendment to do so. As Senator Quinn said, this person will be appointed by the Minister. While some excellent people without veterinary qualifications work in the animal welfare area, if the best person for the position was a registered veterinary practitioner he or she could not be chosen by the Minister. The Minister is not required to accept a person proposed by another body but has the power of appointment. My amendment would give the Minister the possibility of appointing a registered veterinary practitioner. As the Bill stands this could not be done. I am not attempting to increase the critical mass of vets, which has been increased from seven to nine by the Minister's amendment — I had only proposed ten to allow for negotiation.

It would be a mistake not to accept my amendment. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland is allowed to nominate and could decide to nominate a vet. The Director of Consumer Affairs could nominate a vet. However, as Senator Quinn said, if the best animal welfare person happens to be a vet, the Minister cannot appoint him or her.