asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will state (1) the date of commencement of the bovine tuberculosis eradication scheme (2) the annual average number of veterinary surgeons engaged in the scheme since it commenced (3) the current size of his Department's task force and the plans, if any, for expansion of the force.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bovine TB Eradication Scheme.
2.
The bovine tuberculosis eradication scheme commenced on 1st September, 1954. The annual average number of veterinary surgeons engaged as principal practitioners on the scheme was 470 but, in addition, these veterinary surgeons employed about 200 veterinary practitioners as assistants for varying periods each year. At present the task force consists of 12 veterinary surgeons but it is not proposed to expand this force as such.