asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will introduce amending legislation which will give him greater control over the administration and policy of the National Stud, or, alternatively, if he will take steps to appoint an all-Party Committee of the Houses of the Oireachtas with power to investigate and report on all aspects of the administration and policy of the stud.

I do not propose to introduce legislation or to take steps of the kind suggested by the Deputy.

Am I to infer from the Minister's reply that he is quite satisfied with the matter and that the policy is perfect?

I am not entirely satisfied that any human institution in this troubled world is perfect, Madam.

May I take it that the Minister has no intention of satisfying the representatives of this House?

I intend, in respect of all responsibility delegated to me by this House, to maintain a steady progress in the general direction of perfection.

Such as?