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DAERA launches TB Partnership Steering Group
The group will share a report with DAERA minister Andrew Muir by the end of March.
Veterinary experts are among the group informing decisions.

A new bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) Partnership Steering Group has been established to support the eradication of the disease in Northern Ireland.

The group, launched by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), will see experts from the veterinary, farming, environmental and industry communities collaborate to explore proposals.

The establishment of the group follows a report from chief veterinary officer Brian Dooher, which was released in November 2024. The report included 40 proposals recommended by Mr Dooher to target the reduction and elimination of bTB.

Mr Dooher’s report reviewed progress achieved since the 2022 Bovine TB Eradication Strategy. However, it also examined evidence of higher levels of bovine TB incidence in Northern Ireland.

The TB Partnership Steering Group will begin by examining the immediate priorities for action and the steps that need to be put in place.

It will then work through the remaining proposals, before reporting suggestions back to Andrew Muir, the minister for agriculture, environment and rural affairs, by the end of March.

Mr Muir will make an announcement on DAERA’s next steps soon after.

The TB Partnership Steering Group has already had its first meeting to discuss initial steps. Many of the proposals raised by Mr Dooher will require further policy development, financial and legislative assessment, and consideration from ministers.

The group is chaired by Mr Dooher, with representatives from twelve different groups sharing their views. This includes the Association of Veterinary Surgeons Practising in Northern Ireland, North of Ireland Veterinary Association and Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Mr Dooher said: “This is a new and radical form of bTB governance for Northern Ireland and will be a unique coalition in managing the disease. It is important that government engages with this form of partnership working and enters dialogue openly with stakeholders adopting a solution focused mindset.

“We welcome the new members of the partnership group and look forward to working with them to develop a delivery plan which will outline key actions to be taken forward in the time ahead.”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.