asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware that a large number of milch cows which were treated for mastitis during the dry period have, on calving, become useless for further milk production; and (a) if he will have an investigation carried out into this serious complaint; (b) if this form of treatment has the approval of his Department; and (c) if there is any scheme whereby farmers who have suffered loss will get compensation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Treatment of Mastitis.
2.
My Department have had no reports of large numbers of milch cows becoming useless for further milk production after treatment for mastitis during the dry period. My Department's Veterinary Research Laboratory has received, and is investigating, specimens from three herds in one area which showed signs of fibrosis and induration such as would result from tissue damage.
I am advised that dry cow treatment using specific drugs prepared by reputable firms has been shown to reduce the incidence of new infections of cows' udders. This form of treatment is recommended by my Department and by veterinarians throughout the world as part of a mastitis control programme.
There is no compensation scheme in operation for any losses that may be alleged to arise from the treatment of animals for mastitis.