Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

The Minister suggested that Senators have misunderstood this section of the Bill. We do not misunderstand it, we understand it better than most of the Minister's officials who drafted the Bill. I have outlined the reasons for the amendment, so there is a more a workable and legitimate Bill that will achieve the Minister's objectives. If we bring this in as it stands we will drive rogue traders underground.

The Minister did not address my query about the standards required, although he mentioned that regulations will be introduced after the legislation. Why can we not have an idea of what those regulations will be along with the legislation? Why could they not be an appendix to the Bill so everyone would be aware of what is going to happen and would not need to extend the timeframes for lead-ins?

It is unfair to say the working group was in place for five years. Every breeder and small farmer who is involved in this area would not have been aware of that. This amendment is reasonable and secures inclusiveness. We are prepared to withdraw it, however, if the Minister would agree to some extension, even to six months. It seems the Minister is not for turning, which is a disappointment.