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Farmers’ vet bills could soar as the European Union moves to clamp down on the use of antibiotics in livestock production.
Fears are growing that an ongoing review of veterinary medicines across Europe could lead to severe restrictions in the prescribing and use of antibiotics.
For farmers, the fear is that shorter prescription lengths and additional mandatory farm visits will drive up costs on farms.
It has been suggested that the current 12-month prescription length in place for Irish farmers could be slashed to as little as a few days.
Superbugs
The growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and so-called superbugs is behind Europe’s move to tighten up the laws on antibiotic use.
The United Nations has warned that AMR could be responsible for up to 10 million deaths annually by 2050 if left unchecked.
It is understood that the IFA intends to lobby all Irish MEPs on the agriculture committee in Brussels in two weeks.
Ireland East MEP Mairead McGuinness told the Irish Farmers Journal: “There is a review of veterinary medicines legislation under way at EU level, driven by concerns about AMR and antibiotic use.
“It aims to tighten up the use and prescribing of antibiotics. However, we will not know the final position until negotiations between the European Parliament, Council and Commission conclude mid-next year.”
She added: “A tightening of the rules is inevitable. It is unlikely that the Irish situation [12-month prescriptions] will prevail.”
Ahead of the curve
She added that Irish farmers are ahead of the curve on tackling AMR.
“It is very welcome that Animal Health Ireland and practices at farm level in Ireland are working to reduce antibiotic use, particularly in the area of intramammaries [mastitis and dry cow tubes].
“It shows that Irish farmers are aware of concerns about antibiotic use and are responding appropriately.”
Irish vets have already called for more on-farm visits to be made compulsory and for prescription lengths to be shortened in the fight against AMR.
More farm visits key to fighting antimicrobial resistance – vets
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