Northern Ireland plans new bovine TB strategy, prioritizing vaccination over culling.

Northern Ireland's Chief Veterinary Officer, Brian Dooher, recommends a new approach to control bovine TB, focusing on a trap, vaccinate, and release program before considering a wildlife cull in high-prevalence areas. The Agriculture Minister, Andrew Muir, plans to establish a new industry-government partnership to produce a delivery plan by March 2025, aiming for a "fundamental change" in strategy. The current approach costs over £55 million annually, with compensation payments totaling £36.5 million in 2023/24.

November 28, 2024
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