Brian Ó Domhnaill (Fianna Fail)

On the amendment and section 16 in general, the Minister has stated the section will enter into force following the publication and signing of the regulations. This is the crux of the matter and the reason for the industry's confusion. People are concerned that they do not know what the regulations will be. It is normal procedure for a Minister and his or her officials to design and sign off on a set of regulations.

There is docking in the agriculture sector, be it of sheep or lambs. Such docking is common practice to ensure a lamb's well-being rather than its good looks. Every farmer has engaged in docking and a registered vet must visit the farm. This provision is a source of concern for many sheep farmers. Will the regulations curtail this practice? Perhaps the Minister's opinion differs.