The Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) has welcomed what it says is the Department of Agriculture’s understanding of farmers’ concerns in the new TB testing protocols as part of Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions.
The IFA discussed in detail with senior department officials, the need for flexibilities in TB testing requirements as government controls intensified as of midnight last night (Wednesday, October 21).
Flexibility
IFA animal health chairman Pat Farrell said: “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.”
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.
President of the IFA, Tim Cullinan, has said: “The challenges posed by Covid-19 require a collective effort.
From speaking to many members, I know there is a particular concern about keeping farms operational in the event of illness.
“IFA has over 940 branches around the country and it’s important that farmers look out for other farmers in their parish.
“I would ask you to be conscious of older neighbours and those with underlying medical conditions,” said Cullinan.