Pauline O'Reilly (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

It is good to have the Leas-Chathaoirleach back in the Chamber. I thank Senator Chambers for outlining the Order of Business. Previous speakers mentioned that much has been achieved in the past couple of days in the context of greening Ireland and climate and biodiversity. I acknowledge both that and the historic step forward taken last night in the Seanad to finally end fur farming in Ireland. Fur farming is a cruel practice. Seventeen years ago, as a colleague pointed out, the Green Party tabled legislation to end fur farming. We have finally done so. It is a good day. We have also put on the Statute Book a scheme that will be developed in respect of to small-scale planting of native forestry. That also happened on the floor of the Seanad. We have the circular economy Bill, as outlined by Senator Boyhan. That came before the Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action. There was extensive pre-legislative scrutiny. It was a good day for those who hate dumping. There will be CCTV cameras, which many of us have sought mfor years. There will be a host of measures to cut down on waste. Much more needs to happen. We all acknowledge that.

I wish to speak on animal welfare. Last week, a ship left for Jordan with young cattle on board. It was at sea for 12 days. I have spoken on numerous occasions about live exports. Libya is another destination. It is unnecessary and does not bring in that much income. It needs to be examined. Whatever about live exports within the EU and these short journeys, this involves very young animals being on board for weeks at a time without vets being on board. This cruel practice also needs to be ended.

I frequently speak about greyhound racing. We have seen reports and investigations about the greyhound industry and yet the Minister is looking to provide funding of €1 million to Kilkenny for the redevelopment of the greyhound stadium. This is not the correct use of funding. It is time for everybody to step up to the plate when it comes to animal welfare. All of our species are interconnected. Showing kindness to other animals and species should set us apart as human beings. I ask people to examine their consciences when it comes to these issues. That goes for all parties in this Chamber who support greyhound racing. It has to stop.