Seanad debates

Wednesday, 23 March 2005

Veterinary Practice Bill 2004: Committee Stage (Resumed).

 

12:00 pm

Photo of Noel CoonanNoel Coonan (Fine Gael)

I am concerned about use of the phrase "enter any premises, if necessary by the use of reasonable force". An officer should only have that power on obtaining a District Court order. Only one body in this State can administer that kind of justice, namely, the Garda Síochána, and it is the only body that should have that type of power. This is a serious matter. If the Minister is to pursue this further in the legislation, the provision should stipulate that the powers to enter premises should be exercised only on foot of District Court warrants. I have experience of officials, the vast majority of whom are fine. I do not want officers entering premises by using reasonable force. It is not acceptable.

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