The tensions and stress associated with on farm bovine TB testing have been highlighted first-hand to Monmouth MP David Davies.
Following discussions at Monmouthshire Show, Mr Davies visited NFU Cymru members Rhys and Judith Parry this week to observe their full herd short interval TB test.
The Parry’s, who farm at Penterry Farm, Chepstow, currently have over 300 cattle and suffered a TB breakdown in April at their routine annual herd test. They are now subject to strict animal movement restrictions.
Surrounded by the woodlands of the Forest of Dean on the Welsh/English border, Rhys and Judith’s land doesn’t neighbour any other farms. Despite new fences being erected, it is not possible to completely separate the cattle from wildlife roaming the land - which could be a potential source of infection for the herd.
Mr Davies said: “I really wanted to come down to the farm to see TB testing as it happened and to experience it first-hand.
“It’s easy for people to say ‘oh it’s only a TB test’ but now I am able to go back and tell my government colleagues that it simply isn’t ‘just a TB test’ and in fact puts farmers and cattle under a great deal of pressure and stress.
“Farmers who have had their animals tested have to wait for two days to find out if they can start trading again. If not, then it will be another 60 days before the whole process begins again. Meanwhile, like so many others, they are unable to do any business. This is an intolerable and devastating situation.”
NFU Cymru Monmouthshire County Chairman Ian Williams added: “I am really pleased that Mr Davies was able to attend the Parry’s farm in order to see what really happens on TB testing day.
“Farmers in Monmouthshire want to see this disease eradicated from our county and this can only be done through a comprehensive programme of measures tackling the disease in both cattle and wildlife.
“We have welcomed the Welsh Government’s latest announcement on steps to eradicate the disease from all sources of infection and we hope progress can be made as soon as possible.”