asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will make a statement on the progress of the Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication Scheme in the southern creamery areas since 1st October 1962; and if he can indicate whether any extension of time beyond June 1964 may be necessary in certain areas where an exceptionally high incidence of the disease has been found.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bovine TB Eradication.
11.
I am glad to say that there has been encouraging progress in this area. The vast majority of herds have had their first clearance test and since 1st October 1962, 42,000 reactors have been removed, bringing to 104,000 the total removal since the counties in question became a clearance area on 15th June. About 40 per cent. of the herds in the area have earned the clear herd bonus.
The 30th June 1964 has been set as the target date by which it is expected that all reactors, following the second round of testing in the south, will have been removed. Experience shows however that further testing and reactor removal will be necessary at that stage before the disease can be said to be completely eradicated. I see no reason at present to contemplate any change in the programme now in operation.