Bovine TB in Wales

The second year of the Welsh Government’s badger vaccination project has started.  The work, which is undertaken in three weekly cycles, is expected to be completed by the end of October.  The project is expected to last for five years within the Intensive Action Area (IAA) in North Pembrokeshire and is part of the Welsh Government’s wider programme of work to eradicate the disease in Wales.  Employees from the Welsh Government undertake the trapping and vaccinating; in the first year 1,424 badgers were vaccinated. 

But recently the Welsh Government has stated the project will be too expensive for it to fund a Wales-wide programme.  The Government has been in talks with organisations and individuals who have been actively supporting vaccination over culling to support a fund for the roll out of the project.  The RSPCA, Badger Trust, National Trust and Brian May have all been contacted although no firm commitments have been made as yet.  Plans are being put forward for farmers and landowners to pay for the bill for vaccinating badgers on their land and then apply to the Government for a grant to cover the costs.  The estimated cost to vaccinate a badger is considerable at £600.

Meanwhile, the Welsh Government is developing a new service – Cymorth TB, to help those affected by bovine TB cope with the disease.  A six month pilot will begin in the autumn in six areas; Anglesey, Wrexham, East Carmarthenshire, Gower, East Monmouthshire and North Pembrokeshire.  Fully trained-up private vets will work with clients providing advice on biosecurity, trading strategies and referring them where necessary to other service providers who may be able to help.  Also on offer will be training days showing ‘best practice’ in both high and low incidence areas.