Swann Raises Concerns with DAERA Minister Over Consistency of Cattle Euthanasia Criteria

Robin Swann MP has raised concerns with Alliance DAERA Minister Andrew Muir regarding the consistency of the criteria used when departmental regional veterinary officers decide to euthanise cattle.

Through questioning the Department, Mr Swann revealed that in the last 5 years a total of 526 cattle have been euthanised. What is notable from the information discovered is that, during that period, 416 of those were culled under a reason described by the Department as "other", which according to the Department relates to the killing of animals for animal welfare or environmental reasons. This accounts for almost 80% of all cattle culled.

This "other" definition does not include those cattle culled to prevent spreading disease to other animals or to prevent microbiological or chemical contamination of human beings.

Mr Swann said:

"What is also notable is that 249 of those cattle culled under the 'other' definition, or 60% of those, have come under the remit of only two of the nine offices, being Dungannon and Enniskillen. That is why I have asked Minister Muir to ensure that there is a consistent approach and definition across Northern Ireland."