ICMSA say Minister’s TB proposals need to be balanced and fair for all stakeholders

The President of ICMSA, Denis Drennan, has said that what ICMSA is looking for in the current discussions in relation to TB is an ‘Action Plan’ that will set out clearly the requirements on everyone from farmers to other players in the livestock industry, including vets, the DAFM and other state agencies with clear targets and timeframes for all. 

Mr. Drennan said that such a plan was perfectly attainable and could be agreed and implemented in a way that treated everyone with respect and fairness.   He said that it was incumbent upon those making ‘blanket’ references to farmer opposition to the proposals to go past the ‘skim’ and actually look at the details of the different positions to ascertain whether the measures proposed would achieve their objective.  Mr. Drennan said that very legitimate concerns around the Minister’s proposals remained to be dealt with and would require further discussions.  

“ICMSA’s major concern relates to very significant requirements being placed on farmers – some of which may have serious farming and financial implications – without any corresponding requirements being placed any of the other players. ICMSA can’t accept this singling out of farmers when it’s obvious that if TB is to be dealt with, we all need clear distinct targets, procedures, and timeframes in place, certainly in relation to the role of wildlife in relation to TB spread. We also repeat our proposal that any animal should only be allowed to move twice following a TB test with a further TB test required if further movements take place.  With the average animal moving 1.3 times in their lifetime, such a proposal would not be a major burden on farmers, and we again call on the Minister to include this measure in his TB proposals”, said Mr. Drennan.  

The ICMSA President said that from the first discussions of a new response to the latest surge in TB figures, the association had indicated that the Association’s readiness for significant and meaningful actions that will halt and then reverse this latest surge that is inflicting real misery – financial and psychological -on mostly dairy farmers around the country.

“We’ve always indicated that we’re ‘on board’ for a serious response that’s going to get TB levels moving in the right direction.   But that’s going to mean that everyone involved in the movement, trade and sale of cattle plays their part as well and that must mean the finishing units, the dealers and the marts too. The proposals so far suggest more regulations on the farmers while everyone else carries on their sweet and unbothered way. It’s not fair and it won’t work.”

Mr. Drennan concluded by saying that the Minister needs to revise his plan, set down clearly requirements, targets and timeframes for all players – including his own Department – and then move forward.

“The plan cannot just be about farmers; the other players need to have their requirements strictly outlined and time-framed also” concluded Mr. Drennan.   

Ends       28 May 2025

Denis Drennan, 086-8389401

President, ICMSA.

Or

Cathal MacCarthy, 087-6168758

ICMSA Press Office