Committee Review Into Bovine TB Gets Underway

The Assembly Committee for Agriculture and Rural Development received its first briefing today, Tuesday 24 April as part of its Review into Bovine Tuberculosis (TB). 

The Committee’s Review will examine all possible measures that could be taken in Northern Ireland to reduce and eradicate the disease in cattle.  The first briefing today was from the Northern Ireland Audit Office (NIAO).

Committee Chair, Paul Frew said: “There have been previous reports into the issue of Bovine TB in Northern Ireland, the most recent back in 2009. Today’s briefing by NIAO has provided the Committee with a very useful update on the progress of the Department of Agriculture in addressing issues raised in these past reports.  It is important for the Committee to be aware of what steps have already been taken in addressing the recommendations made in previous reports before we make our own recommendations. 

“Bovine TB is a very serious problem which affects many in the farming and rural communities across Northern Ireland and it is important we continue to review all possible steps that can be taken to reduce and eradicate the disease.  As part of our Review, the Committee will specifically be looking into the costs and benefits of the different measures available in order to reduce and eradicate the disease in cattle.”

During the Review the Committee will take evidence from a wide range of stakeholders including the Department of Agriculture, as well as wildlife organisations and scientific bodies.

ENDS