We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Dáil
‹ Order of Business

Animal Health and Welfare Bill

Summary

Mattie McGrath asks about the Animal Health and Welfare Bill and the serious Schmallenberg sheep disease, while also questioning the cost and future of tribunals; the Taoiseach says the Bill is at Report Stage and the Minister knows of the disease.

I will do my best to stay within guidelines. I refer to the recent McAleese report on the Magdalen laundries which apart from the trauma of the evidence, was value for money at €11,400. When will a review be undertaken of the Tribunals of Inquiry Act 2006 and the disbandment of tribunals? We need to learn from our very costly mistakes.

I have a question about the Animal Health and Welfare Bill. There is a new disease in sheep, the name of which I can hardly pronounce - Schmallenberg. It might sound funny but it is a very serious disease.

Comment on this
Seán Barrett An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

The Deputy does not need to try to pronounce it.

Comment on this

Perhaps the Government could look at it and pronounce it. This is a very bad year for sheep after such a wet year with fluke. This is a chronic disease.

Comment on this
Seán Barrett An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

Please, Deputy. What legislation are you talking about?

Comment on this

The Animal Health and Welfare Bill 2012. Where is that with regard to this item?

Comment on this
Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

That Bill is on Report Stage. It was supposed to be taken this week but this has not been possible.

Comment on this
Seán Barrett An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

If it is on Report Stage, it is not promised legislation.

Comment on this
Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

I am not familiar with the disease mentioned by the Deputy but the Minister is well aware of it.

Comment on this

It is Schmallenberg.

Comment on this
Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

The report on the tribunals has been around since 2005. It is not possible to end tribunals just like that. Many of us would wish for the same value as given by the McAleese inquiry and report-----

Comment on this

Who started it?

Comment on this