Views sought on proposal to reduce bTB compensation rates in NI

Views are bring sought on whether the amount of compensation payable should be reduced on a phased basis, with a reduction to 90% of the bovine animal’s market value in the first year of implementation with a further reduction to 75% of the animal’s market value a year later.

​The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) says the consultation is a new low point for farmers and if implemented, the proposals will reduce the payments farmers receive for cattle that react to a bTB test.

UFU president David Brown said: “The UFU has serious concerns about DAERA’s consultation proposals to cut stock value and it is a new low point for our farmers. Members continue to be blighted by bTB on farms and it’s having a severe impact not only on the Northern Ireland (NI) livestock industry, but on the well-being of our farmers.

"A reduction in stock value will mean our members will not be fully reimbursed for the worth of their animals. Farmers already bear a loss of income from those animals that are removed when bTB positive. To devalue cattle’s worth after the animals have fallen victim to a disease that has become rampant in our region because of our department’s inability to deliver an effective eradication programme, is nothing short of barefaced robbery.

"DAERA failed to deliver a wildlife intervention programme that has been an integral component in reducing infection levels in other jurisdictions, and although there is still intent to do so, our members cannot be expected to carry any further costs because of DAERA’s shortcomings.”

The UFU says it previously requested a meeting with the Secretary of State for NI, Chris Heaton-Harris, following the publication of measures relating to cost savings in NI, but no response was received.

“All of the measures proposed by the Secretary of State relate to the provision of goods and/or services. The only exception is the proposal to intervene on the money which our members receive for their cattle. This is theft and will not be tolerated by UFU membership.

"The reality is, nothing has progressed since DAERA’s bTB eradication strategy announcement in 2021. This is a serious blow for the farming industry and the UFU will be robustly objecting to the proposals within the consultation.

“DAERA’s consultation proposals threaten the future of any farm which becomes infected with bTB. I urge anyone who is remotely interested in NI’s food security to respond to this consultation - it is a straightforward process that should be given top priority.

“The UFU is seeking legal advice on this matter and will be taking every step to stop this proposal in its tracks,” said Mr Brown.

Meanwhile, Brian F Walker said the Pedigree Cattle Trust will be making a detailed response to this consultation programme.

He added: “It is quite clear that the Department seeks to make the farming community pay for the abject failure of the Department to take effective steps to alleviate the problem. The European Union have consistently criticised the performance of the Department in this regard.”

To respond to DAERA’s consultation visit; Proposal to Reduce the Compensation Rate for Cattle Removed under the bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) Programme.