A new approach needed now for tackling TB in Irish agriculture urges Irish MEP

Seán Kelly, MEP for Ireland South and Leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament, has called for a comprehensive review of Ireland's approach to controlling bovine tuberculosis (TB), arguing that current strategies have failed to deliver results for farmers and communities.

"TB testing has been ongoing for decades in Ireland, yet we see little progress in eradicating this disease,” Kelly said.

“It’s time we ask ourselves if this endless cycle of testing and culling is truly the best we can do. If we took this same approach to COVID-19—testing and isolating endlessly with no strategy for resolution—it would have been unacceptable. But that’s essentially what’s happening here with TB.”

Kelly expressed frustration with the impact that TB policies have on Irish farmers. “Farmers are seeing their herds restricted and their income affected, while neighbouring farms are caught up in the same restrictions, waiting for a clear test that may only lead to more rounds of testing.

“This has gone on long enough without meaningful solutions.”

Kelly highlighted the need to address the root causes of TB and called for a more science-driven strategy.

“We need to identify the underlying sources of infection and tackle them head-on. For example, deer populations are increasing across the country, and while they’re not the responsibility of farmers, they are affecting farm livelihoods.

“Yet, farmers are expected to bear the costs of fencing to keep deer out. Imagine if farmers allowed their cattle to roam freely—it would be unacceptable. We need fair play here.”

He also called for setting clear targets to end TB testing through more effective strategies: “Let’s set a goal to end the need for continuous testing by eliminating the causes of TB transmission,” Kelly said.

“This requires open discussion and a commitment to finding real solutions, not just repeating the same ineffective measures year after year.”

Kelly emphasised the need for fairness and logic in how TB control policies are developed and enforced.

“We need a bit of ‘cop-on’ in how we handle TB. Farmers deserve policies that not only protect their livelihoods but actually work to eradicate TB for good,” he concluded.