Vol. 431 No. 3
83 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if he has satisfied himself with the bovine TB eradication programme; if the programme is successful and value for money; the way in which the disease is spread; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The bovine TB eradication programme has to be considered in the context that 97 per cent of herds are free of the disease and the incidence of infection in animals has been reduced to less than 1 per cent. On the basis that improvements can be made in the technological aspects, further reductions can be anticipated in this residual disease incidence.
In evaluating the expenditure on bovine TB eradication account must be taken of the essential role which the scheme plays in preserving export outlets for livestock and livestock products. In this regard, the eradication programme is both necessary and value for money. An independent study undertaken by Professor Seamus Sheehy confirmed the view that the eradication scheme has been extremely cost beneficial.
Bovine tuberculosis is primarily spread by the respiratory route from one animal to another. However, there are other mechanisms of spread, for example ingestion. Under ongoing research programmes, progress is continuing towards a greater understanding of the transmission of the disease.
