AQO 23/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 08/02/2024
Answered On Date: 20/02/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail his plans to tackle the spread of Bovine Tuberculosis.

Answer:

Bovine Tuberculosis is one of the most challenging issues faced by the cattle farmers in Northern Ireland. I share Members’ concerns regarding the current high rate of TB incidence and the impact this is having on hard working farm families. With herd incidence currently at over 10%, one farm in ten has experienced the difficulties associated with a new TB breakdown in the past year and I have already heard directly from farmers the impact this is having.

Tackling this disease is also having a significant impact on my Department’s budget. 53 million pounds was spent on the control of TB in the last financial year and a similar amount is expected this year.

The high cost of controlling TB is not sustainable- not to farm businesses nor to my Departmental budget. I can assure the house that tackling this disease and all the factors which contribute to its spread and endurance will be a top priority for me in my new role. I will be working closely with my officials in the coming weeks and engaging with stakeholders to examine the best way to help lower the rate of TB in our herds.