Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 812: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will publish the new animal health and welfare Bill; the reason for the delay in its publication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29272/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Work is proceeding on drafting the Animal Health and Welfare Bill which gives effect to a number of commitments in the area of animal health and welfare contained in the Programme for Government. Following the public consultation process initiated on the bill in 2008, almost 400 submissions/comments were received from stakeholders, including organisations and individuals, with an interest in animal health and welfare issues. My officials met with a wide range of organisations and this element of the process was very informative and provided an opportunity for organisations to elaborate on their respective submissions. Drafting of the bill is now continuing taking account of the further comments received.