Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The issue is that if it is limited to a "farmer" then the question arises as to whether it is a farmer representative or a farmer. I accept the principle of the argument. I also said that Senator Coonan could make a recommendation, but I did not say he could appoint someone. He can do that when he is the Minister for Agriculture and Food.

Senator Callanan is correct, however, particularly under subsection (b) which states, "one at least of whom avails of veterinary services in the course of business, trade or profession". Business, trade or profession includes the farming community and the Senator is correct in saying that someone who uses the veterinary service should be entitled to be part of the Veterinary Council. I do not have an issue with that. I foresee that this will happen.

Another issue that stretched peoples' imagination is the determination of who should represent animal welfare concerns on the council. Should it be a farmer, or should it be X, Y or Z? I would like the freedom to examine that more closely. Animal welfare is an area in which vets are involved, as are farmers. Unless they are not doing their job correctly, they will all have cognisance of animal welfare.

However, there are other people who occupy a particular niche with regard to animal welfare, many of whom are supported by the Department, and they have done a fine job in creating awareness of animal welfare, particularly concerning pets. I feel such people should have a voice on the council. The legislation is purposely not prescriptive in order to allow flexibility on this issue. The aim is to be as fair and as flexible as possible. Often if one is over-prescriptive one can limit the possibilities.

There are other areas where I would like to be over-prescriptive, for example, on the number of women to be recommended by the governing bodies to the Minister. I believe that such recommendations should include at least one man and one woman. There is nothing to suggest I might not change my mind on this issue, although it is a matter for consideration under alternative types of legislation. While there are a number of women vets, it is also important that there be a good gender balance on a council such as this. I have been assured that will be the case and I hope it will happen.