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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Mar 1997

Vol. 477 No. 1

Written Answers. - Bovine Diseases.

Ivor Callely

Question:

215 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the current considerations, if any, there are in relation to the tuberculosis and brucellosis eradication programmes; the issues, if any, which have been brought to his attention in this regard; the new initiatives or measures, if any, he has considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8505/97]

The 1997 bovine tuberculosis eradication programme which commenced on 17 March 1997 will operate on similar lines to the 1996 programme. The programme will include a full monitor of the national herd of 7.3 million animals together with consequential testing of reactor and contiguous herds. Research projects including the specialised work of the TB investigation unit will be continued with the aim of providing new technologies required to eradicate TB.

With regard to brucellosis, discussions are currently taking place between my Department and representatives of the farming bodies and veterinary groups with a view to finalising measures for 1997.

Ivor Callely

Question:

216 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the number of recorded cases of bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis since 1986; the number of animals by county which have been slaughtered for each of the years from 1986 to date in 1997 due to testing positive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8506/97]

The number of recorded cases of bovine TB and brucellosis on a national basis for each year since 1986 is shown in the following table. The other information requested by the Deputy is not readily available but, I will supply it to him as soon as the data has been compiled.

Date

No. of TB Herds Restricted

No. of Brucellosis Herds Restricted

31/12/1987

4,443

181(Apr-Dec)

31/12/1988

5,931

215 (E)

31/12/1989

6,850

254

31/12/1990

6,818

163

31/12/1991

5,939

85

31/12/1992

4,867

224

31/12/1993

4,948

223

31/12/1994

4,924

189

31/12/1995

5,074

189

31/12/1996

4,157

313

1,085 herds have been restricted for TB from the beginning of 1997 to 12 March 1997. Figures are not yet available in respect of brucellosis trends.
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