Dr. Damien Barrett:

It depends on the outbreak. We have had some outbreaks in the recent past where we have had big numbers of calves. When we come across an outbreak, we cannot determine what way it is going to go. We need to adopt a precautionary principle there. They are not a zero risk at all. I do, however, fully accept that they create considerable difficulties for dairy farmers at a time in the year when labour is short and accommodation is lacking. We are considering a way of addressing this issue in such a manner as to mitigate the risk. On the badger management, as Mr. O'Mahony said already, the levels of culling have been relatively consistent over the past 20 years.