asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if any research has been carried out in recent times on the effect that badgers have on the spread of tuberculosis; and if he will indicate the results of such research.
110.
Written Answers. - Bovine TB.
109.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views of the role of tubercular badgers in spreading infection to the cattle population; the way in which ERAD are handling this particular issue; if certain departmental veterinary officers are carrying out trials on this aspect of tubercular infection; and if he will make a statement on the level of epidemiological research in progress or planned in relation to bovine TB.
The Director of ERAD has informed me that a number of research projects on the role of badgers in the spread of bovine TB are at present being carried out. In individual situations, where veterinary officers are unable to pinpoint other possible explanations for an outbreak of the disease, the possible role of wildlife, including that of badgers, is considered and appropriate investigations are undertaken.
Apart from the routine investigation into the role of wildlife in particular cases, the general research projects being conducted by ERAD include research into the ecology and population dynamics of badgers, and the possible development of a blood test to help diagnose tuberculosis in badgers. Trials are also being conducted on the use of a vaccine that could make badgers immune to TB infection or could, at least, reduce the infection phase in badgers. By their nature, these projects will take time to complete but the results will be evaluated on an ongoing basis as they become available.