asked the Minister for Agriculture what the eradication of bovine tuberculosis has cost to date ; what further sums will be necessary ; and if he envisages any further market outlets as a result of the eradication of bovine tuberculosis.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bovine TB Eradication Cost.
36.
The total net cost of the Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication Scheme up to 31st March, 1965, was approximately £32,900,000. The net cost in the current financial year is estimated at £1,460,000.We expect the entire country to be attested during 1965, and expenditure thereafter, on the maintenance of our attested status, should show a progressive decline.
If we had not eradicated bovine tuberculosis, there would undoubtedly have been a most serious drop in the export demand for our cattle and beef, and the development of further market outlets would have been rendered impossible.