Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
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Question 707: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding brucellosis in Northern Ireland; if it is nearly cleared; the number of herds that are restricted; the precautions being taken to ensure that it does not spread into the Republic of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41179/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Latest statistics available on the DARD website show that only 6 herds were confirmed with brucellosis infection in the period 1 January to 31 October 2011. There are no herds in the North currently showing evidence of active infection. Brucellosis controls there comply fully with the requirements of Council Directive 64/432/EEC (as amended).

Under the All-Island Animal Health and Welfare Strategy, officials in both jurisdictions work closely on animal health and welfare issues, including brucellosis. An active North-South TB/Brucellosis Working Group meets regularly to discuss brucellosis matters.

In order to prevent the spread of the disease, imports of eligible animals from Northern Ireland are both pre-movement tested before leaving NI and post-movement tested for Brucellosis on arrival here. In addition, my Department's DVOs situated in Border areas carry out additional testing measures on herds in certain regions along the Border as deemed necessary. I should point out also that any additional testing requirements imposed on farmers is funded by my Department. Furthermore, any animals that disclose high readings following a test are removed and farmers compensated under the on Farm Market Valuation scheme.

Given the importance of controlling the risk of spread of the disease to their herds, the on-going cooperation of farmers with recommendations and advice delivered by my Department's veterinary service in relation to importing cattle from Northern Ireland is important in the context of maintaining Ireland's Official Brucellosis Free status.