Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I agree with Senator McCarthy. This is something about which Veterinary Ireland has expressed a concern. The concern is that some future Minister could allow others in when there is no national emergency. I am told the reference to class A might not be acceptable, on the advice of the Attorney General, because class A might not exist in ten years time. Could some other term be accepted, wording such as "a disease that poses a significant threat to the national herd"? I understand the concerns of the vets. It is necessary to tighten this legislation, as a laxity could develop in the future under someone who does not have the same commitment. I understand class A poses a difficulty but some other words might be acceptable, and this would overcome the concerns of the vets.