Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 March 2004
227 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason the veterinary laboratory at Athlone is not available to farmers who have post mortems carried out on dead animals; if his attention has been drawn to the huge dissatisfaction that there is amongst the farming community and veterinary surgeons over the non-availability of this important service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9878/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe regional veterinary laboratory in Athlone continues to provide services for the examination of samples of blood, milk and faeces, using the appropriate disciplines of biochemistry, microbiology and parasitology. The laboratory will again provide a full range of services including the post mortem examination of carcases of farm animals for cause of death, and badgers for evidence of tuberculosis, as soon as essential works have been completed. The Office of Public Works expects that the outstanding works will be completed by summer.
