Written answers

Tuesday, 23 September 2025

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Animal Sales

Photo of Michael FitzmauriceMichael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

510. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will consider a review of his Departments approach to online restricted herd sales, in order that marts are allowed to operate on the same terms as private sales to CFUs; if he will move to 60 days; if so, when (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49868/25]

Photo of Martin HeydonMartin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I published the Bovine TB Action Plan, “Addressing Bovine TB in Ireland”, on 9 September. The Action Plan follows extensive discussions with stakeholders in recent months. I also received support and approval from Cabinet on 24 June to address the current high levels of Bovine TB (bTB). The Action Plan is based on scientific research and veterinary expertise. There are five measures, which are underpinned by 30 actions:

  1. Support herds free of bTB to remain free
  2. Reduce the impact of wildlife on the spread of bTB
  3. Detect and eliminate bTB infection as early as possible in herds with a bTB breakdown and avoid a future breakdown
  4. Help farmers improve all areas of on-farm biosecurity
  5. Reduce the impact of known high-risk animals in spreading bTB
The Bovine TB Action Plan allows for the sale of bTB test negative cull cows from restricted herds through special cull cow sales in marts to Controlled Finishing Units. This measure was introduced to provide competition in the market for cull cows. These animals will not require a specific pre-movement test once they are negative at the breakdown test. The sale of cull cows from restricted herds at special mart sales will be expanded to include the sale of all dairy cull cows with no animals allowed return home from such sales. Cull dairy cows from non restricted herds can continue to be sold in marts on ordinary sale days.

Some of the actions in the plan will require ongoing engagement between my Department and stakeholders and this will continue in the coming months. My Department will ensure ongoing communications on the implementation of the actions in this plan to farmers.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.