Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 23 Apr 1997

Vol. 478 No. 2

Written Answers. - Bovine Diseases.

Matt Brennan

Ceist:

19 Mr. M. Brennan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if his Department will pay for all necessary contiguous tuberculosis testing required by ERAD within 12 months of a farmer paying for his herd test. [10738/97]

Robert Molloy

Ceist:

39 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry his Department's policy regarding tuberculosis testing of cattle in herds adjacent to herds where tuberculosis reactors have been found; the charges which apply to such contiguous testing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10764/97]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. Yates):

I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 39 together.

Under the revised arrangements for the TB and brucellosis eradication schemes which were introduced from 1 April 1996 responsibility for arranging and paying for the first herd test in the calendar year is devolved to farmers. The cost of these tests is a matter for negotiation between the farmer and the veterinary practitioner. My Department will pay for any subsequent testing including subsequent contiguous tests in the calendar year.

All contiguous brucellosis testing in 1997 is being paid for by my Department.