Bernard Allen
Question:89 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will make a statement on the health of the Moorepark herd; and the number of cases of Johne's disease which have been detected in that herd. [23181/97]
Written Answers. - Health of Moorepark Herd.
I presume the Deputy is referring to the Teagasc herd at Moorepark. The position in this regard is that a case of BSE was confirmed in an animal in this herd on 7 August last.
In accordance with my Department's policy, the herd was depopulated and the carcases were rendered into meat and bone meal which will be destroyed. In follow-up investigations, a further case of BSE was confirmed in a cohort animal.
Prior to August 1997 one clinical case of Johne's disease was diagnosed in this herd in an imported animal. In addition six further animals were removed from the herd on veterinary advice as a precautionary measure.
Teagasc is currently in the process of identifying replacement cattle for Moorepark so as to continue research work at the location. I understand that it is following veterinary advice identifying reliable sources in order to minimise the risk of introducing disease to this farm.