(Limerick West) asked the Minister for Agriculture if there are any plans in his Department to introduce legislation to improve and strengthen the bloodstock industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The question of legislative changes in relation to the bloodstock industry will be considered when the report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Thoroughbred Horse Breeding Industry is received. This commission was set up by the party opposite when they were in Government, under the chairmanship of Lord Killanin in 1982 with specific terms of reference to examine all aspects of the thoroughbred horse breeding industry, including horse racing, and to make recommendations for its future development. Again the report of the commission is expected in late autumn.

(Limerick West): Can I get any indication from the Minister of State as to when it is likely that we will have this report?

In late autumn.

(Limerick West): Is that definite?

Yes.

(Limerick West): Is the Minister of State further aware that we were to have an interim report from this committee? Is there any reason why this report has not been forthcoming?

We will have it in the late autumn.