Big drop in BVD cases this year

THERE has been a major reduction between 2013 and this year in the incidence of persistently infected (PI) calves under the National Bovine Viral Disease Eradication Programme, the Dept. of Agriculture have confirmed.

Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed said that the incidence of PIs had fallen from 0.66% in 2013 – the first year of the compulsory eradication programme to just 0.1% this year.

Minister Creed said that he was very pleased with the progress made in the eradication of BVD during the course of this year so far.

“The supports are helping the eradication effort.  In addition, the move from February 2017 to automatically restrict herds that retain PIs beyond the five week period is proving very effective,” said Minister Creed.

He also confirmed the continuation of the financial supports through the course of 2018 for farmers who opted for the early removal of PIs from their herd. The full range of supports is as follows:

Dairy

■ €150 if the female dairy and dairy cross calves are removed within 21 days (3 weeks) of the first positive or inconclusive test.

■ €35 if the female dairy and dairy cross calves are removed between day 22 and 35 (the 4th and 5th week) of the first positive or inconclusive test.

■ €30 towards the disposal of dairy bull calves through the abattoir or knackery within 21 days of the first positive or inconclusive test.

Beef

■ €185 if the calf is removed within 21 days (3 weeks) of the first positive or inconclusive test.

■ €60 if the calf is removed between day 22 and 35 (4th and 5th week) of the first positive or inconclusive test.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.