Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

The vagueness of the reference is its strength because it gives authorised officers the flexibility they need in responding to any situation. The requirement is that authorised officers be of a high standard, but I would like to provide them with the flexibility they need to respond according to need. The Senator is correct that some officers may well be gardaí or Customs officials because we do not know where an incident will occur. It could happen in a port, mart or at the horse sales, but, more than likely, it will happen on a farm. I will examine this issue again, given that the Deputy has raised it, but we are trying to be flexible in the legislation to allow authorised officers to do their business as they see fit. If there is a problem, we can follow up on it, but that is the intention. Having in place authorised officers who are properly qualified and informed in their work is the best approach to take.