Vol. 493 No. 2
130 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will provide the testing facilities in relation to brucellosis at the regional laboratory in Athlone, County Westmeath; the cost involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15561/98]
Under current arrangements blood samples are tested at the brucellosis laboratory in Cork, with a limited number at the regional veterinary laboratory in Sligo. The other regional laboratories of my Department are not involved in brucellosis blood testing and there are no plans for them to become so involved.
In order to cope with the increased workload, additional resources have been assigned to the Cork laboratory and this has ensured the smooth processing of samples received.
In addition, a procedure will shortly be put in place with An Post to expedite delivery of samples to the Cork laboratory.
