Bovine TB Top of Agenda for Agriculture Committee

The Assembly Committee for Agriculture and Rural Development today launched a Review into Bovine Tuberculosis (TB).  The Review will examine all possible measures that could be taken in Northern Ireland to reduce and eradicate the disease in cattle.  The Committee will also give some thought to the costs and benefits of the various measures available.

Committee Chair, Paul Frew said: “Bovine TB is a serious problem throughout the farming and rural communities in Northern Ireland.  It is crucial that the problem is tackled to ensure the long term health of our cattle.   

“Our Committee Review will focus on what preventative measures should be in place to reduce the risk of infection.  This is a disease that costs the economy millions of pounds every year and it has a devastating effect on our farmers. 

During the Review, the Committee will take evidence from the Department of Agriculture and from key stakeholders, as well as undertake visits to look at how other programmes are tackling the disease.

Following the Review, the Committee will discuss its thoughts, recommendations and suggestions with the Minister for Agriculture and her Department.

ENDS