Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I propose to provide for the points covered by amendment No. 19 from the Senators under the new subsection (3). I am also in a position to accept the substance of amendment No. 21 tabled by Senator Henry. I propose that a mechanism be inserted in section 19 to provide for the election, every two years, of alternatively four and five of the nine elected places for veterinary practitioners to the council. This will have the implication that four of the practitioners elected to the first council will serve for approximately two years rather than four. Thereafter, each group will serve a term of four years. This will address the concerns raised in the House.