Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

He made a long contribution on the matter and he explained the difficulties that would arise in implementing the regulations if there was an exemption. That was done following advice and due consideration.

The Bill is about the welfare of dogs and the amendment deals with hunt clubs. Many issues have been raised that are not related to the amendment. Registers and the use of names and addresses is covered in an amendment to section 8 while the local authority issue is subject of an amendment to section 16. Hunt clubs have nothing to fear from the legislation because, as every Member said, they run their operations in a humane way and they adhere to the highest standards. There will not be a financial imposition on them under the Bill. The issue is implementing the legislation properly and to do so, exemptions such as that being sought would create practical difficulties in the implementation of the regulations. The clubs have nothing to fear because they do their business well. It is a matter of regulation, inspection and the welfare of dogs and we are all agreed on that.