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The Irish Cattle and Sheep Association (ICSA) has welcomed a proposal from the Department of Agriculture at the TB forum to streamline the removal of TB reactor cattle.
“We have received assurances from the Department that a target of seven days is now in place for the removal of reactor cattle,” ICSA animal health and welfare chair Hugh Farrell said.
“A streamlining of this process is welcome as any delay can exacerbate the potential for further spread of the disease.”
TB compensation
However, Farrell went on to say that more needed to be done to improve the standard compensation rate for removed reactor animals.
He pointed out the quality breeding stock was often worth several hundreds of euro more than the standard compensation rate.
“In this regard, the ICSA has also voiced concerns that undue pressure is being put on valuers to avoid giving the real value of high-calibre cows or heifers,” Farrell said.
“The ICSA is very insistent that the independence and expertise of valuers should be respected by the Department.”
Herd history
He also said that the ICSA was adamant that the TB history of a herd should not be displayed at marts as it could “seriously undermine the business of such farmers”.
Farrell said that more tangible results needed to be seen in the fight against TB and that the Government should not rush to emphasise the use of badger vaccinations over culling.
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