Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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41. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there is evidence to suggest that there is an increase of TB infection in livestock near clear-felling sites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11724/23]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Some research as been done that could be interpreted as suggestive of a small increase in TB in areas when clear felling occurs. However, as the research is far from conclusive this is being further investigated by my Department - prompting further studies in this area to help further understand what is happening when clearing felling occurs.

DAFM works with Coillte and other organisations such as Iarnród Éireann, farming bodies etc to help increase the number of badger setts recorded every year. This facilitates the roll out of badger vaccination and allows us to plan and target where we introduce vaccination - such as when new roads are being built or large areas of forest are cleared.

I am very conscious that TB outbreaks can be caused by a number of different factors and it is important to continue our efforts against all these factors to continue our drive towards eradication of this disease and reduce its impact on farm families.

Overall, I am committed to reducing TB incidence rates across the country as I am acutely aware of the financial and emotional pain associated with a TB breakdown.