I published the Bovine TB Action Plan, “Addressing Bovine TB in Ireland”, on 9 September. The Action Plan follows extensive discussions with stakeholders in recent months. I also received support and approval from Cabinet on 24 June to address the current high levels of Bovine TB (bTB). The Action Plan is based on scientific research and veterinary expertise. There are five measures, which are underpinned by 30 actions:
Support herds free of bTB to remain free
Reduce the impact of wildlife on the spread of bTB
Detect and eliminate bTB infection as early as possible in herds with a bTB breakdown and avoid a future breakdown
Help farmers improve all areas of on-farm biosecurity
Reduce the impact of known high-risk animals in spreading bTB
Farmers from TB restricted herds can currently sell cattle directly to a single controlled finishing unit (CFU) without a pre-movement test. However, CFUs are required to comply with stringent conditions around bio-security and twice-yearly TB testing rules for CFUs with grazing. The new policy regarding the rules for movement of TB test negative animals from restricted herds to CFUs, via online mart sales, including the requirement of a 30 day pre-movement testing, is currently being reviewed by my Department.
