Wed Sep 25 08:14:24 UTC 2024: ## Bovine TB Crisis Grips Irish Farmers: “Uncontrollable Outbreak” Declares Fine Gael Spokesperson

**Dublin, Ireland** – A serious outbreak of bovine tuberculosis (TB) is plaguing Ireland, with the disease now affecting over 5% of herds nationwide, according to alarming figures released this week. Tim Lombard, Fine Gael Spokesperson on Agriculture, described the situation as “uncontrollable” and a “terrible stress and hardship” for farmers.

Lombard, speaking in the Seanad, highlighted the dramatic increase in TB reactor rates, particularly in his home county of Cork, where the rate has risen by 22% in the past six months. He cited personal accounts of farmers who have lost significant portions of their herds to the disease, with one neighbour losing ten cows and another finding 52 reactors on his farm.

The situation is particularly concerning as farmers prepare to house their cattle for the winter months. Lombard warned that the close confinement could lead to an even more rapid spread of the disease, potentially resulting in a “dramatic” increase in TB cases next spring.

“We will never eradicate TB from Ireland,” he stated, calling for a “TB control scheme” to manage the problem. He criticized the current eradication program, which he deemed a “failure” despite increased funding.

Adding to the concern, Brendan Gleeson, Secretary General of the Department of Agriculture, admitted that taxpayer spending on the TB program will reach €80 million this year, a significant increase from €57 million in 2022. He acknowledged the need for “difficult” measures to control the spread of the disease, including further restrictions on cattle movement and the use of technology such as vaccination.

Gleeson warned that the disease could spread to the remaining 95% of healthy herds if swift action is not taken. “We really have to make sure we stop this disease from spreading,” he stressed.

The crisis has brought the issue of bovine TB to the forefront of Irish agriculture, with farmers facing significant financial, physical, and mental strain. Lombard called for a debate with the Minister for Agriculture to address the situation and secure adequate staffing to manage the crisis.

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