Allister wins battle over TB map release
10 October 2008
*Coloured circles denote different strain types found in cattle; Each star relates to a single badger found with TB
Jim Allister MEP has won a victory with DARD over the release of a map which illustrates a clear correlation between TB strains in badgers and cattle. DARD-funded research has collated data of M. bovis isolates from cattle, and from badgers killed on the roads, while ‘mapping’ the different strain types. DARD initially refused to disclose the map, quoting public interest grounds. However, this decision was subsequently overturned, after the MEP won an appeal.
The MEP commented,
“I believe it is in the public interest that this data should be published. This map illustrates the prevalence of various strain types of M. bovis across Northern Ireland. Crucially, the map confirms that there is a clear correlation in strain types being detected in cattle as in badgers.”
“It speaks volumes that DARD would want to hide this information from the public, on the basis that this Department would rather bury its head in the sand than acknowledge there is a wildlife dimension to TB eradication. Farmers continue to lose out financially through disruption caused by an ineffective Government policy on TB control.”
“Perhaps DARD will come clean on whether some form of badger cull/management strategy will go ahead”.
ENDS
