Vol. 489 No. 7
185 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the degree to which bovine TB tests are to take place in 1998; the extent to which the animal health status is likely to be improved by this programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9637/98]
The aim of the 1998 tuberculosis testing programme is to test every herd at least once during the course of the calendar year, together with any consequential tests that may arise. The level of bovine tuberculosis is measured by reactors disclosed per 1,000 animal tests, APT, and has decreased from 3.3 in 1995 to 2.9 at the end of 1997. The 1998 testing programme to date is proceeding satisfactorily. The programme is a vital element in protecting our cattle, beef and dairy export trade.
