Assembly backing on TB must now lead to action

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has welcomed strong cross-party recognition at Stormont of the devastating impact of bovine TB (bTB), but has warned that farmers need to see urgent, decisive action on the ground.

Following the passing of a Sinn Féin motion on bTB, including an amendment from the DUP, the Northern Ireland Assembly formally recognised the scale of the disease’s impact on farm businesses, public finances, animal welfare and mental health.

UFU deputy president, Glenn Cuddy, said, “It is positive to see political recognition of the scale and seriousness of bovine TB. Farmers have been living with this disease for years, so it is important that reality is now being fully acknowledged at Assembly level.

“This disease is costing in excess of £60 million a year in direct terms, but the real figure is far higher when you look at the hidden impact on farm businesses, families and the wider industry,” continued the deputy president.

“The Andersons report makes it absolutely clear, farmers are carrying the largest share of the cost of bovine TB.

“That is simply not acceptable. No other part of the system is exposed in the same way, yet farmers are expected to absorb the financial, emotional and operational burden year after year.”

He said the motion clearly reflects what farmers have been saying for a long time – bTB is not just an animal health issue, but a major economic and environmental challenge.

“If we are serious about improving sustainability and reducing emissions, then we have to tackle bovine TB. Diseased animals are less efficient, meaning more inputs and higher emissions per unit of output. You cannot separate animal health from climate and environmental policy.”

Mr Cuddy continued, “There is no credible pathway to eradication without dealing with the wildlife reservoir. That argument isn’t new; it’s supported by science and experience elsewhere. The time for hesitation is over.”

The deputy president recognised the growing frustration among farmers that, despite repeated reports, strategies and political discussions, meaningful progress on the ground remains too slow.

“Farmers are tired of strategies and blueprints that are not fully implemented,” he said. The TB Partnership Steering Group has set out a clear direction, what we now need is delivery, and delivery at pace.

“Beyond the farm gate, bovine TB is impacting rural employment, livestock marts, the wider agri-food supply chain and our ability to compete internationally. It is also taking a real toll on farmer wellbeing, which cannot be ignored.”

Mr Cuddy concluded with a clear message to policymakers, stating, “The Assembly has now spoken with one voice on the seriousness of this issue. Farmers will welcome that, but they will ultimately judge success on what happens next.  We cannot continue with a system where farmers carry the greatest burden of this disease. Action to eradicate bovine TB, including wildlife intervention, must now be delivered without further delay.”