John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)

Johne's disease is widespread in other EU member states and indeed worldwide. It is a chronic infectious disease of cattle, which gives rise to gradual wasting and loss of condition. Most cattle are infected early in life and while adult animals can become infected, it is rare and they usually have other problems such as deficiencies with their immune system. The disease has been notifiable in this country since 1955.

Until 1992, strict import conditions ensured that Johne's disease was relatively rare in Ireland. However, since 1993, the increase in the number of cattle imported in the aftermath of the single market contributed to a significant increase in the numbers of reported cases of the disease. In 2002 and 2003, 100 animals and 150 animals respectively were diagnosed as having Johne's disease.

Figures of incidence of the disease for 2004 have not been collated. Results on samples submitted for culture can take up to six months because of the extremely slow growth pattern of the organism. Farmers in general appear to be more aware of the disease and the increased volume of samples particularly blood samples being submitted for analysis suggests that an increasing number are actively managing the disease on their own farms. Control of Johne's disease centres on hygiene and on-farm animal management in particular with respect to the rearing of potential breeding animals. I recognize the need for support of an effective national strategy to arrest and reverse the incidence of the disease.

In an effort to raise awareness and to promote higher standards of hygiene management practices and calf rearing, my Department published two booklets in 2002 on Johne's disease. One of these is aimed at the farmer and the other at the private veterinary practitioner. These booklets detail the precautions individual farmers should take to keep the disease out of their herds. It would also be prudent for any prospective purchaser to seek private certification of freedom from Johne's disease from a vendor of cattle either imported from abroad or sourced within this country.

In early 2003, my Department discontinued the policy of slaughtering affected animals when it became apparent that this approach was not effective. A strategic review, which involved consultation with relevant interests, of the approach to tackling the disease was initiated. The process generated a number of very useful proposals of a practical nature.

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