Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I agree. My problem is that in the interregnum between our debate on Committee and Report Stages I have not had finality on my discussions with the Attorney General. My personal view is that there should be equity. Therefore, in the case of registered and unregistered premises we should look at a court order. Unfortunately, I have not been in a position to provide the amendment to the House. I will probably have to provide a further amendment at our further discussions in the other House and bring it back to this House.

There are some concerns in the Attorney General's office with regard to the exact issue raised, and other types of legislation where a search warrant would not be the appropriate way to proceed. Such measures are designed for use in an emergency which is not the case in the scenario we are discussing regarding this legislation. I am working on that issue and I hope to provide the amendment in due course.

The court will determine what is "reasonable force". If a search warrant is required the Garda will be present. Therefore, it is a matter for the Garda and the court. It is not a matter for the Minister or the council to determine what is "reasonable force". I am taking on board the Senators' concerns. I agree with them and will table the necessary amendment in due course.

I do not know how we sometimes come to debate horses. Under the new passport scheme there are exemptions for horses, which will address some of the concerns raised. In other words, if they are for human consumption that is written on it and certain issues have to be adhered to. If they are not for human consumption that is also written on it.

I doubt very much if a horse that has won the Gold Cup will be on anybody's plate. It would certainly be an expensive evening. The Senator is correct in saying there are practical issues in regard to drugs. It is a very expensive process to have drugs approved by the Medical Council.

Under a new EU Directive 2004/20/8 vets, under controls, will be allowed to import foreign drugs. That will address the issue to which the Senator has adverted. Many drug companies have pointed out that making a number of drugs available here would be very expensive. Given that the EU directive is being introduced it should address the concerns of the vets.