asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food whether recently announced reductions for bovine TB reactors are likely to have a detrimental effect on the bovine TB eradication scheme; the amount of the savings involved; whether he expects co-operation from the farming community in response to the reduction in reactor prices; the effect such reductions are likely to have; the co-operation which is necessary to achieve disease eradication; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Bovine Disease Eradication.
80.
There has been no announcement regarding a reduction in grants for TB reactors. However, I am informed by the director of ERAD that the rates of grant for reactor cattle are at present being reviewed by the board of ERAD.
These grants are intended to compensate farmers for the losses incurred in the sale for slaughter of the reactors. It follows that periodic reviews of the levels of grants are necessary to ensure that they are maintained at appropriate levels.