Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I support this reasonable amendment. To follow from Senator Ormonde's comments, we have proposed a period of 12 months but if the Minister wants to come back on Report Stage with a nine-month period instead, we will go along with it. Three months is not sufficient for people to comply with all the new legislation which will be put before them and for the local authorities to implement the proposals in the legislation.

No matter what happens, three months is insufficient for dog breeders to get their houses in order if necessary. I know from the greyhound sector in particular that the majority are in order but some establishments may need a longer period than three months in which to act. I hope the Minister will compromise on the issue as it does not concern the principle of the Bill. It is dealing with the reality. The amendment has been proposed in good faith and I hope the Minister will respond favourably to it.