Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

I take account of this point. This proposal is about trying to use the available expertise and relates to those who are willing to help and who may not even be seeking payment. At the same time, one must ensure one does not use people who may be involved in animal welfare organisations for all the right reasons but who may not have the skill set to be able to follow up on the basis of reports.

It is about using judgment. I can assure Members that anybody we appoint as an authorised officer will have to show some expertise and experience. Such people will not be undertaking inspections in an area where they have a fundamental or ideological opposition; that would be crazy. From a practical point of view, there is a great deal of expertise available and we should use it, particularly for the domestic or household pet situation.