Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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872. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of farms by county that have been affected by botulism to date in 2020; the supports provided to the farms affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6019/20]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Botulism in cattle is not a notifiable disease. However, it is of benefit that farmers may report suspected cases to my Department in order that the incidence and extent of outbreaks can be monitored.  DAFM veterinary laboratories are available to assist in diagnosis and to rule out other diseases which can present in a similar manner to botulism. Suspect cases may be reported by the herd owner's private veterinary practitioner, to the Regional Veterinary Laboratory or the nearest Regional Veterinary Office (RVO).

As the disease is non-notifiable, I am not in a position to provide the Deputy with a definitive number of farms affected in 2020.  However, one case has been reported to my Department.  

Where a case of botulism is notified to my Department, an investigative procedure is initiated involving veterinary personnel  who carry out a thorough examination in an effort to trace the origin of the  outbreak.  Procedures are put in place to mitigate and prevent further outbreaks and follow up inspections are carried out to ensure that the required controls are being implemented.