Vol. 461 No. 1
253 Mr. Ellis asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the estimated savings to farmers who are in excess of 70 livestock units as a result of the changes in the TB scheme; and the current position of farmers with more than 30 livestock units. [2579/96]
255 Mr. Ellis asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the increase in costs to farmers with less than 30 livestock units that will result from the change in the TB scheme. [2581/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 253 and 255 together.
Under the proposed new arrangement for the TB and brucellosis eradication schemes farmers will in general pay their veterinary practitioners for the first annual herd tests each year. The level of fees payable will be a matter for negotiations between the farmer and practitioner. The proposed new arrangement includes a reduction in farmer levies of some 65 per cent. While it is the case that farmers will benefit in overall terms under the new arrangements, the position of individual farmers will depend on their particular circumstances.
254 Mr. Ellis asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the cost of tags to farmers under the new TB scheme for each of the years from 1996 to 1999. [2580/96]
The contract for the new calf tagging arrangements has been awarded for two years only. Farmers will receive the tags free of charge for the first year. However, farmers will be required to purchase any replacement tags directly from the supplier. The payment arrangements for tags in the second year will be discussed with the farming organisations over the coming months.
