TB reactor numbers rise as staff resources decline in TB programme – IFA

Reactor numbers predicted to hit 40,000

Cavan IFA Animal Health Chair Thomas Cooney has reacted furiously to the updates provided to the TB Implementation Group.

“We are going to lose up to 10,000 more productive animals from our farms this year with reactor numbers predicted to hit 40,000.

“Over 700 more farmers to-date or 5.5% of herds have had their farms restricted, while in the same period the Wildlife Control Programme have only dealt with an extra 200 badgers,” he said.

Mr Cooney said compounding the situation is the Department of Agriculture announcement that the Wildlife Control Programme is losing eight full time staff as a result of the Government HR moratorium.

“These are critical areas in investigating and resolving TB breakdowns and ensuring timely removal of reactors which are vital if we are to get TB numbers under control.”