Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 95: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the last case of brucellosis was confirmed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11872/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Brucellosis is now at a historically low level in Ireland. The last confirmed case was disclosed in April 2006. If no case of Brucellosis is disclosed between now and the end March 2009, I intend to apply to the EU Commission in April seeking Official Brucellosis Free status for Ireland. At that stage, I would envisage a relaxation of some of the Brucellosis programme's control measures which will reduce the burden on farmers of testing and movement controls. My Department has already met with representatives of the farming organisations to discuss possible changes to the programme. However, given the nature of the disease and as Brucellosis continues to exist in Northern Ireland, we will be adopting a cautious approach to reducing controls and any reduction will be phased over a number of years and will be based on an assessment of the risks involved.

I must emphasise that any new outbreaks of the disease between now and April this year could jeopardise the attainment of officially free status. Consequently, I would urge all involved to continue to comply with the control and testing arrangements that remain in place and to exercise caution when sourcing replacement female animals.