New badger TB scheme welcomed but concern turns to delivery
The new €6 million on-farm badger biosecurity scheme under the TB Action Plan has been welcomed by the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association (ICSA).
However, the association said that "real progress on the ground" under this new measure must be delivered.
ICSA animal health and welfare chairperson John Barron said that, while some elements of the latest announcements on the TB programme are welcome, there are still areas that will need "further attention".
“Farmers are now dealing with the reality of these changes as they come into effect, and while more is being asked of them, it is important that the supports keep pace,” he said.
Barron said the ICSA had "consistently called" for improved supports for farmers dealing with TB breakdowns and acknowledged the introduction of a new TB helpline for farmers.
“We have long argued for a dedicated helpline to assist farmers through what is an extremely stressful and complex process, and its introduction is a very positive step," he said.
"However, it must be properly resourced and capable of delivering practical, timely advice when farmers need it most."
On the badger scheme, Barron said: "This is an important recognition that effective biosecurity costs money."
According to the ICSA, the scheme will provide a 40% contribution towards approved biosecurity measures costing between €500 and €2,000, through participating co-ops and merchants.
Commenting on the commitment for additional staffing for the wildlife programme, Barron said: "Farmers have heard repeated commitments regarding the wildlife programme, but what matters now is delivery. We will be watching closely to see real progress on the ground."
Despite some improvements, the ICSA animal health and welfare chairperson said it was "deeply concerning" that no progress has been made on the issue of compensation.
"We are seeing additional regulatory burdens placed on farmers without any meaningful movement on compensation," he said.
"This remains a critical gap in the programme and must be urgently addressed. We need to ensure that the burden is not placed disproportionately on farm families who are already operating on tight margins," Barron added.
