Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

There is a definition of "minor" in the Bill. Equally, we have carried out considerable work, which I agree was the right route to take, regarding the work of a veterinary nurse under the direction or in the presence of a veterinary practitioner. On that basis, we are allowing a new type of profession to develop. We are not saying that a veterinary nurse can carry out a major procedure. The legislation contains definitions of what constitute minor procedures. We would tie ourselves in knots if veterinary nurses were not permitted to do a stitch or deal with minor issues. I understood Senator Coonan was satisfied with the definition of "minor" given on Committee Stage. That is democracy at work.

I would like to see the work of veterinary nurses develop. This is the first time that they have been recognised. It is a new type of profession and I agree that it has to be developed under the direction of others who are professionally qualified. However, the definition of "minor" in the Bill is appropriate and it determines what a veterinary nurse can and cannot do.