Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Mar 1997

Vol. 477 No. 1

Written Answers. - Bovine Diseases.

Brendan Smith

Question:

228 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern in relation to the additional costs imposed on farmers where a tuberculosis or brucellosis test has to be carried out before the normal round test; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that it was the clear understanding of farmers that any additional herd testing ordered by the district veterinary office would be paid for by his Department and that no farmer would have to pay for more than one test in a 12 month period; the proposals, if any, he has to offset such additional costs for farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8606/97]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. Yates)

Under the revised disease eradication arrangements agreed which were introduced from 1 April 1996 payment in respect of first tests on herds in each calendar year is generally the responsibility of herdowners. My Department will carry the cost of any second or subsequent herd test each year. In recognition of this, the amount collected under the diseases levy arrangements is reduced by about £18 million per annum.