Ivor Callely
Ceist:198 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Finance the likely total cost of the recent foot and mouth outbreak; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18351/01]
Written Answers. - Foot and Mouth Disease.
The direct Exchequer costs incurred as a result of the recent outbreak of foot and mouth disease are £44 million to end-June. This is comprised of: the cost of surveillance/patrolling measures including Garda overtime, Army personnel at the Border etc. which is £26 million; the cost of preventive measures, including inspection and culling costs associated with Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development inspections, inspection equipment, compensation, etc. which is £13 million; and other costs i.e. administration and promotion costs incurred by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, and social welfare assistance for those affected by FMD, which are £5 million.
In addition, extra Exchequer funding of £7 million has been made available to fund the Bord Fáilte led tourism marketing reassurance campaign.
It is difficult to provide a reasonable estimate of the likely end-year costs as the stringent Border control measures that were introduced in February are ongoing. Given the continuing occurrences of FMD in the United Kingdom, no decisions have been taken as to when these measures will be scaled back or lifted.