The results from the tests carried out on the suspected case of BSE identified in Co Louth are expected today (Thursday). It is anticipated that the Pirbright Lab in Britain will confirm it to be a classic case of BSE. The Irish Farmers Journal understands that a precautionary cull of cohort animals has been carried out in recent days with no other positive animals being identified.

While the news of a confirmed case will be disappointing to the industry, it should be taken in the context that isolated incidents are relatively common occurrences across Europe. In most cases, it has proved impossible to definitively identify the source. On a positive note, markets appear to understand that such occurrences are a reflection of the rigours of the EU testing regime.