asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries why there is such a high increase in spot checks on herds in the bovine TB scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
32.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bovine TB Scheme.
31.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the reason why the number of the Department's spot checks under the Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication scheme has increased this year.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 32 together.
In 1969 my Department intensified their efforts to weed out the remaining sources of bovine tuberculosis. To this end, a team of private veterinary surgeons was engaged to test specified herds in a number of areas. All herd owners in the country were notified of this arrangement which was made with the full agreement of the Irish Veterinary Association. I intend to continue the arrangement in 1970.
In view of the fact that the number of outbreaks this year has increased considerably, what steps will the Department take to deal with the situation?
This is one of the steps we are taking to deal with it.
We have been hearing that for the past two or three years.
The price of success is constant vigilance and the co-operation of the farming community, and we are getting that.
In view of the likelihood of our entering the Common Market very soon and the fact that the cattle export business is probably the most profitable we shall have, if we do not clear our herds of warbles, TB and brucellosis, we could easily be kept out of this market. In the time available will the Minister and his Department make every effort to clear out these diseases?
Could I ask the Minister if he is satisfied with the progress made in the eradication of bovine TB?
There are certain areas in the country where the standard of eradication has not been as good as it ought to be, and this is one of the reasons why the spot checks are being made. In general, we are satisfied with the progress of the BTE scheme, but Deputies will be aware that this scheme must be kept going all the time. There is a constant series of outbreaks and we have to work at it all the time to keep it down.