Dept Flexibility on TB Testing in Level 5 Addresses Farmers’ Concerns

IFA Animal Health Chairman Pat Farrell has welcomed the Department of Agriculture’s understanding of farmers’ concerns in the new TB testing protocols in level 5.

The IFA Chairman said IFA discussed in detail with senior Department officials the need for flexibilities in TB testing requirements as Government controls intensified.

“The Department’s response is balanced and reasonable. It provides farmers who have COVID-19 concerns the flexibility to delay tests, while at the same time allowing for a period of trade after the due date of the test,” he said.

Pat Farrell said the removal of the requirement to test calves up to 120 days is significant and addresses the issue of close contact between farmers and vets at the time of testing.

Critically, he said these animals will be eligible for internal trade up to 120 days of age without a TB test.