Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 September 2015
173. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason she has refused to meet groups opposed to hare coursing; and the reason she did not attend the opening of the Irish Wildlife Rehabilitation Conference but did attend a game fair in Birr, County Offaly which showcased, among other bloodsports, working terrier and lurcher dogs. [32412/15]
View answerI receive numerous invitations from groups and individuals for meetings, events and conferences in relation to various issues which are pertinent to my Department. It is not always possible for me to accept such invitations.
With regard to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Conference (dealing with wildlife crime), a senior official of my Department opened that event on 13th September last on my behalf. Officials from the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department also made presentations at this conference.
