Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Rabies was eliminated from European foxes using baited vaccine many years ago. The idea that we have been discussing a vaccination programme for badgers for 25 years is quite shocking. The Minister's reply to the effect that it will take us a further two years before we see any progress in this direction is most concerning. This is against the backdrop of firm information to the effect that the badger population and its sustainability are under threat because of the practices in which we have been engaging.

The studies conducted by the Department cover 5% of Ireland's farmland, not a vast area. Meanwhile, the UK has spent over a decade culling badgers. Scientists in the UK have done a gold standard study over ten years. One conclusion of the study was that culling made no meaningful contribution to the control of bovine TB in Britain. Moreover, the study concluded that badger infection follows rather than leads TB infections in cattle.

There is no conclusive evidence that badgers are responsible. If anything, the information is contradictory. While TB has fallen, it is very much linked to other measures as well. We need to look at the sustainability of the badger population. I appeal to the Minister to ensure that we do everything possible to move in the direction that everyone says we need to go.

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