Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I stated on Committee Stage, I am opposed in principle to compelling Rásaíocht Con Éireann to make regulations. The provisions set out here are enabling provisions, all of which may not be required to be made at this time. By necessity, this is an exhaustive list of the principles and policies which Rásaíocht Con Éireann may wish to regulate for. It was never intended that Rásaíocht Con Éireann would make regulations in respect of all of these provisions in the immediate future. These provisions will future-proof the legislation in order that, should it become necessary or desirable to regulate those matters in future, Rásaíocht Con Éireann would have the power to do so. In particular, regulations would also have to be examined to determine their compatibility with other domestic and European law.

The discretionary nature of the regulation-making power is essential to ensure there is no conflict with other legislation. Different policy considerations may also arise with regard to whether such legislation is necessary or desirable in the future. I have examined Senator Higgins's suggestion for the inclusion of the word “appropriate”. As the making of regulations could only be appropriate to the enabling provisions, taking into account other legislation, the addition of the word would make no difference. For these reasons, it would clearly not be appropriate to impose an obligation on Rásaíocht Con Éireann to make regulations in respect of matters as set out in the Bill.

With particular reference to amendment No. 29, making provision for the health and welfare of a racing greyhound which has been retired by its owner, breeder or trainer, I have tabled amendment No. 28, which addresses the Senators’ concerns but does not oblige Rásaíocht Con Éireann to provide for greyhounds in perpetuity. My amendment will allow Rásaíocht Con Éireann to create a fund for the rehoming of greyhounds at the end of their racing or breeding careers. Once rehomed, the greyhound will be the responsibility of its new owner. The risk with the Senators’ wording is that it could be interpreted as meaning that Rásaíocht Con Éireann would be obliged to provide for the greyhounds after rehoming.

It is the intention of Rásaíocht Con Éireann to include a section on retirement planning in its code of practice for the welfare of greyhounds, advising owners that if they are not in a position to look after their greyhounds in retirement or otherwise, to find the greyhound a suitable family home. The Irish Retired Greyhound Trust, funded through the Irish Greyhound Board, arranges new homes for retired greyhounds in Ireland and abroad. In addition, many private rehoming agencies are active in providing similar services.

I will have to make an amendment to amendment No. 28 to rectify a typographical error later when we come to it.