Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

We have made it clear from the outset that we will not prescribe codes of practice in the legislation but will give the Minister the power to put in place codes of conduct, whether by establishing new codes or adopting codes that have been published elsewhere. Clearly if we put in place a code of practice that affects commercial farming, for example, we would do so in conjunction with stakeholders and farming organisations. I have already put in place a code of practice for the operation of rescue homes for dogs, cats, horses and donkeys. There are numerous good examples of practical codes of conduct which offer guidelines for the treatment of animals. I want to leave it open to me or any future Minister to negotiate and put in place codes of conduct through ministerial order if it is deemed appropriate to do so.