Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

The 1958 Act allows for regulation. I worry when I receive e-mails from people who have neither the courtesy nor the courage to sign their names. I am neither a ruralite nor an urbanite. I support the rights of those involved in an industry and a sport which creates jobs and does no harm. On any greyhound track one will see people who are creating employment. Greyhound owners and trainers are decent, honourable and hard-working. They have regulation and self-regulation. They know what is right and what is wrong. A number of people who have spoken to me are for and against the Bill. If the Government is serious about the operation of dog breeding establishments and compliance with regulation, why have negotiations not taken place with the bodies involved in the industry? Why has the Minister shown no willingness to listen? The e-mails we have received from representatives of the greyhound industry have shown them to be open to dialogue and consultation and willing to embrace regulation and a hands-on approach. The Government is missing a golden opportunity. Perhaps Fianna Fáil has decided the Seanad does not matter but that it will move mountains to ensure the Bill is passed when it is debated in the Dáil.