Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

We are trying to ensure that when people leave animals for a period there will be adequate shelter and warmth as well as suitable food and water and that the animal will be provided with adequate exercise. A practical example would involve someone working during the day who has a dog in a stable, porch or shed. An effort should be made. The legislation has the term "what is reasonably required by way of". This is so that people will know there is an obligation to provide an opportunity for an animal to run or move around or, for example, to be taken for a walk in the case of a domestic dog. In other words, if we are leaving animals for long periods, there should be a requirement, within reason, such that people should take account of the exercise needs of those animals. That makes sense. We are not going over the top. We have deliberately used a phrase which I know the Senator is fond of after yesterday's debate, namely,"reasonably required by way of". This is about ensuring animals are exercising and surviving when people are unable to look after them.