Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 May 2026
113. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine now that the TB action plan has come into effect, if his Department is planning a review of its implementation in light of reports of significant confusion among farmers regarding the new herd criteria, testing rules, and animal movement requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35629/26]
View answerIn September 2025, I launched the ‘Bovine TB Action Plan: Addressing Bovine TB in Ireland’. There are 5 measures and 30 actions underpinned by scientific research, evidence and veterinary expertise in this action plan.
1. Support herds free of bTB to remain free
2. Reduce the impact of wildlife on the spread of bTB
3. Detect and eliminate bTB infection as early as possible in herds with a bTB breakdown and avoid a future breakdown
4. Help farmers improve all areas of on-farm biosecurity
5. Reduce the impact of known high-risk animals in spreading bTB
The aim of the Action Plan is to reset the bTB programme by putting in place measures necessary to tackle the current disease situation.
On 13 April 2026, I introduced a number of new testing requirements to reduce the transmission of bTB from cattle to cattle. A reduction in bTB levels in breeding herds and in particular dairy herds is a key element of driving down bTB levels nationally. These new testing requirements apply to all cows as well as male cattle aged 36 months or over. There have been no changes made to how calves, weanlings, heifers (with the exception of contract reared dairy heifers) or bullocks and bulls under 36 months of age can be sold or moved from herd to herd.
These changes are targeted, to ensure they focus on the group of animals which are responsible for the largest number of bTB reactors, namely cows and primarily dairy cows, whilst ensuring farmers can continue to sell cows at livestock marts to achieve a competitive price for their animals.
I wrote directly to farmers on 27 March outlining the changes to animal movement and animal testing requirements, and leaflets and posters have also been provided to livestock marts. There have been other communication campaigns including newspaper articles and social media. In addition there is detailed information and updates on these changes, including FAQs at www.bovinetb.ie.
My Department continues to engage with all stakeholders including farm organisations and livestock marts to provide any assistance needed in managing these changes.
There has been encouraging progress in recent months in reducing bTB levels. This reduction in bTB nationally is due to the combined efforts of all stakeholders in supporting farmers in reducing the risk of bTB in their herds.
