Vol. 524 No. 6
118 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the procedures that take place when a farmer reports a CJD case; if he has satisfied himself that the system is user friendly and will encourage compliance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23251/00]
I assume the Deputy is referring to BSE as my Department has no responsibility for CJD.
BSE became a compulsory notifiable disease in 1989 and veterinary surgeons and herdowners are obliged to report animals suspected of having BSE to their local district veterinary office. Upon notification, a Department official from the local district veterinary office will visit the premises where the suspect is held, movement restrictions are placed on the herd and arrangements are made for the suspect animal to be euthanased after a compensatory figure is agreed. The sample is then sent to the veterinary research laboratory for testing.
If the sample proves negative, the movement restrictions are lifted and the agreed compensatory amount will issue. Should the sample prove positive, arrangements are made for the herd to be depopulated, subsequent to valuation being agreed between the herdowner and my Department.
I believe that this system is practical, effective and well understood by livestock farmers and veterinary practitioners.
