Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I understand the Minister's intention is to ensure a balance in that the council should not consist only of vets. However, it is wrong to stipulate that the best person for the job cannot be a vet. The Minister observed that Joe Soap, even if he is not a vet, is entitled to be a member of the council. However, it seems a shame that he is not entitled to do so if he is a vet. Before Report Stage, will the Minister consider some means by which the desirability of ensuring balance is protected without excluding those who possess a veterinary qualification? The Minister has gone a long way towards achieving the correct balance, which is difficult to attain, and I acknowledge her intentions in this regard. However, the explicit stipulation that a person who may be the best choice for the job cannot take the seat if he or she is a vet seems to weaken the authority of the provision.