Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

In recent weeks, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has been conducting a study into the operation of the various veterinary laboratories throughout the country. There are five regional veterinary laboratories in the country in Sligo, Kilkenny, Limerick, Cork and Athlone. In addition, there are three dairy science laboratories, as well as the central laboratory complex at Backweston in Celbridge. One of the proposals from the Department is that all veterinary laboratory services be based out of Backweston. Such a move would fly in the face of what we have heard this week about efforts by the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Heather Humphreys, and others to retain jobs in rural areas. There are serious concerns in the farming community, given our difficulties with foot and mouth and other diseases, at the prospect of moving animals for veterinary examination to one central point. The view is that the current system works well and is not broken. We must ensure the regional laboratories remain in operation.

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