Brian Ó Domhnaill (Fianna Fail)

The same issue affecting section 8(4) arises in section 14(5). Section 14(5) states: "Where a person having possession or control of a protected animal contravenes subsection (1) or (2) and that person is not the owner, then the owner of the animal shall also have committed an offence under subsection (4)." I realise the Minister explained his position yesterday. Anyway, it appears that if I am the owner of an animal and I give it to an animal contract rearing facility, a bed and breakfast facility or to a mart, I remain liable if someone at the cattle mart, the cattle rearing facility or bed and breakfast facility were to carry out something in contravention of the legislation. Under the paragraph, as drafted, the owner would be committing an offence and this is a cause of concern.