Shane McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)

No legislation is perfect when first introduced and can be improved during debates. This legislation is centred on greyhound welfare and was introduced after consultation with all relevant parties.

Senator Cullinane spoke about the previous Government introducing greyhound welfare legislation. I always believed it marked the beginning of the end of that Government. It has been easy for me to introduce this legislation because there was consultation with interested and relevant parties. The greyhound industry is very regulated and is happy with this legislation. It has nothing to fear from this Bill which will actually strengthen it.

The greyhound industry is a fantastic business to be in. A night at the dogs is exciting with people coming to our tracks from all over the world. The upgrading of many of our smaller dog tracks is necessary to ensure they will be able to cater for many users such as hen and stag parties, although I should not refer to stags here. This legislation will ensure all greyhound owners are responsible for the dog until the end, a measure that will also ensure the quality of our greyhound stock.

I agree with Senators on the point about local authorities ensuring inspections. Regarding the calls for progress in other related legislation, there was a desire to get this Bill enacted first. I am pleased with the legislation's progress. It is flying through, like the greyhound Razzle Dazzle.