Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
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Question 109: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food when the comprehensive review of the reactor compensation scheme will be completed; when, after it has been completed, she will introduce appropriate changes to the scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9097/07]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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My Department's programmes for the eradication of TB and Brucellosis provide for a comprehensive range of measures, including the mandatory annual testing of all cattle in the national herd, the early removal of reactors, a wildlife programme involving the targeted removal of badgers where they are implicated in a TB outbreak, the depopulation of infected herds where appropriate and the payment of compensation to farmers whose herds are affected by disease.

With regard to compensation, the On-Farm Market Valuation scheme was introduced in 2002 and, while I am satisfied that, in accordance with the scheme's objective, full market value is paid generally for animals removed as reactors, my Department is currently reviewing the operation of the scheme, taking account of submissions made by farming representatives in relation to certain aspects of the scheme. Submissions have also been received regarding certain disease control measures. I am not in a position at present to state when the review will be completed or what changes may be implemented as discussions with the farming representatives are ongoing.

In addition, my Department is carrying out a Value for Money and Policy review of the TB Eradication programme. This review is expected to be completed by the end of the year, after which the report will be published and submitted to the Select Committee of the Oireachtas.