Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 16 Dec 1998

Vol. 498 No. 5

Written Answers. - Bovine Brucellosis.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

49 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of cases of brucellosis detected to date in 1998; the figures for the same period in 1997; if he has satisfied himself that all appropriate measures are being taken to control the spread of the disease; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27812/98]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The number of brucellosis breakdowns disclosed in herds to date in 1998 is 1,017 compared with 758 at the same time last year. At the end of November 1998, 384 herds were restricted due to brucellosis in accordance with EU trading.

In relation to the current brucellosis situation and in consultation with the animal health forum a number of new measures have been introduced to combat the disease. These measures include the following: from 23 February 1998 all female cattle and bulls over 12 months of age being moved into or out of holdings, other than direct to a slaughter premises, must have passed a blood test within 30 days preceding the date of movement; from the same date, bulls over 12 months and female cattle over 18 months of age may not be sold more than once, whether by public or private sale on foot of a brucellosis test and such cattle being sold must be moved from the holding where tests are undertaken direct to either the purchaser's holding or direct to a mart and from there direct to the purchaser's holding; a full round of blood testing annually for all eligible cattle to augment and complement existing arrangements including monthly milk ring testing; revamped administrative procedures to deal more effectively with herds with brucellosis reactors and those contiguous to such herds; arrangements to speed up the completion of blood tests and the improved notification of results; early removal of reactors and steps to improve detection of irregularities; increased epidemiology work by my Department's veterinary staff; an awareness/ advisory campaign to update farmers and others on farm husbandry and management practices to curtail the spread of brucellosis; a restructured and revamped compensation regime.

I am satisfied that farmers, the veterinary profession and marts are making every effort to implement the new arrangements which I believe can arrest the spread of the disease. The progress of the eradication programme as well as the measures to be applied will be kept under close review in consultation with the animal health forum.