I propose to take Questions Nos. 283 and 284 together.
The Control of Horses Act, 1996 (Commencement) Order, 1997 (S.I. No. 99 of 1997) brought the provisions of the Act dealing with horse control into operation from 18 March 1997. Regulations currently being drafted under the Act in relation to the licensing and identification of horses will be introduced shortly. I have provided £2 million in my Department's Vote for 1997 to assist local authorities in the implementation of the legislation. I understand that local authorities are currently in the process of drafting and publicising by-laws for horse control under the Act. The provision of pounds is a matter for the local authorities.