Farmers with restricted herds are able to move cattle in and restock during a breakdown following changes by the EU to TB regulations.
Under the EU Animal Health Law new provisions have removed the need for a TB-restricted herd to have completed one clear herd TB test before cattle can be moved into it.
Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue said the new change will make it simpler for the business of farming to continue for restricted herds.
“This positive development, along with the success of the new policy on cattle which test inconclusive, again highlights the constructive role of the TB Forum and its Implementation Working Group,” he added.
The new changes came into effect on Monday 2 August after previous restrictions caused difficulties for farmers whose business involved purchasing store cattle.
Now when a farmer draws up a risk mitigation plan for the restricted herd, which is approved by the Regional Veterinary Office (RVO), they can be given permission to introduce stock.
Plans should be practical, pragmatic and helpful to farmers when it comes to reducing the risk of a recurring or prolonged TB breakdown in the herd.
LSL News.