Euthanasia of animals at the time of the removal of TB reactors is a matter for the local Regional Veterinary Office. Consent to the removal of TB reactors is confirmed by herdowners when signing form V8.
As part of previous Freedom of Information requests all relevant documentation has been provided to the person named.
My officials have engaged extensively with the herdowner over the past several years on this issue. The person named has had a number of meetings with senior officials of my Department and, most recently, in November 2019. I am satisfied that the matter has been handled properly, fairly and adequately in full compliance with Department guidelines and was carried out in the best interests of animal health and welfare in the circumstances pertaining to the herd at the time.