The escalation in expenditure for the TB programme over the last number of years has been nothing short of phenomenal. There was €37 million in 2019, €43 million in 2020, €52 million in 2021, €57 million in 2022, €74 million in 2023 and €100 million in 2024. I attended a meeting of the agricultural committee last June where it was predicted that we were on track for €130 million for 2025. If the trends continue, we are on course for €160 million or €170 million in 2026. The expenditure by the State on the TB programme is massive but the herd incidence rate is also massive. I acknowledge the additional €85 million that will go towards the initiative in 2026. It will enable the roll-out of the TB action plan. It is, however, imperative that while some of the extra funding is allocated to bovine TB management to tackle the disease, some of it should go to additional compensation schemes for farmers as the current scheme, with the values included in it, has outgrown its time. It is not financially acceptable or fit for purpose in the current economic environment.

Sentiment score: 0.07

Irish farmers and agrifood companies produce world class products to the highest international standards of food safety and quality. Our food safety and traceability systems continue to be recognised as among the very best in the world and are critical to supporting the export of our produce across the globe. In my part of the country in Counties Carlow and Kilkenny, I have spoken to many concerned farmers and representatives of farming organisations. Like in other parts of the country, we have seen significant increases in TB detection. Herds have been impacted right throughout the island. These are very dramatic figures but it is also a very emotive issue. The Minister says that a confirmed case of TB brings emotional turmoil, but also financial turmoil to farmers who have contracted TB in their herds. I ask that the Minister and his Department take into consideration the financial side but also the emotional side to make sure the correct supports are in place for farmers who have a positive indicator and TB in their herds.

Sentiment score: 0.26