Peter Cleere (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

Irish farmers and agrifood companies produce world class products to the highest international standards of food safety and quality. Our food safety and traceability systems continue to be recognised as among the very best in the world and are critical to supporting the export of our produce across the globe. In my part of the country in Counties Carlow and Kilkenny, I have spoken to many concerned farmers and representatives of farming organisations. Like in other parts of the country, we have seen significant increases in TB detection. Herds have been impacted right throughout the island. These are very dramatic figures but it is also a very emotive issue. The Minister says that a confirmed case of TB brings emotional turmoil, but also financial turmoil to farmers who have contracted TB in their herds. I ask that the Minister and his Department take into consideration the financial side but also the emotional side to make sure the correct supports are in place for farmers who have a positive indicator and TB in their herds.

See this speech in context