asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state the regulations in operation with a view to preventing the transport of tubercular-infected cattle across the Shannon from the eastern side; and how these regulations are being implemented at present.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Transport of Tubercular-Infected Cattle.
9.
The position is governed by the Bovine Tuberculosis (Attested Area) Order, 1960, under which the movement of reactor animals into the attested area, or within the attested area, is prohibited except where movement is carried out under special permit for immediate slaughter at authorised slaughtering premises. The attested area of course now comprises the whole country except six southern dairying counties. The movement of any cattle from a herd in which a reactor arises in the area is also prohibited except under permit until it is confirmed that the herd is free from tuberculosis following retesting of the herd after removal of the reactor for slaughter. These regulations apply equally to movement across the Shannon as to any other movement.
The regulations are implemented by the staffs attached to the local district offices of the Department of Agriculture and with the co-operation of the Garda Síochána. There are special enforcement arrangements in relation to movement of cattle into the attested area. The regulations are vigorously enforced and legal proceedings taken against offenders.