Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2026
934. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if 18 month old bullocks that passed the tissue test as male calves and have a clear result cannot be sold when they are separated from a dairy herd that previously had infected calves that had to be disposed of following notification of the tissue sample results that showed a P1 result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40253/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National BVD eradication programme operated by Animal Health Ireland on behalf of my Department set up the measures to further accelerate progress towards BVD-freedom while supporting farmers and the wider agricultural sector. Compliance with the programme’s guidance is the key to control and prevent the spread of the BVD virus across the country, and achieve final eradication.
The immediate measures for herds with BVD positive or inconclusive results in 2026 include: immediate herds restriction and the notification of neighbouring herds within 400 metres.
Herd restrictions may be lifted once all three of the following measures funded by my Department are fully completed and at least four weeks have passed following the removal of the last positive or inconclusive animal(s). Those measures are whole herd testing, epidemiological investigation and vaccination.
It is widely recognised that the final stages of any eradication programme are very challenging, with a population that is increasingly susceptible to the disease. That is why we must ensure that the efforts of all those in combating a disease which was costing farmers an estimated €184 million per year in reduced productivity when this programme started are not undermined as we move closer to the goal of the BVD programme.
It is important that as we move towards BVD freedom that we remain vigilant in ensuring our efforts to eliminate this disease from our farms ultimately succeed.
