(AGENPARL) - Roma, 2 Ottobre 2026 - DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, ENVIRONMENT AND RURAL AFFAIRS

01 October 2026

DAERA encourages responses ahead of bTB consultation closing date

DAERA is encouraging anyone with an interest in bovine tuberculosis (bTB) to respond to the consultation on Potential Wildlife Intervention Options before it closes at 5.00pm on Friday 9 October 2026.

The consultation seeks views on a range of potential wildlife intervention options that could contribute to the long-term eradication of bTB in Northern Ireland as part of the Bovine Tuberculosis in Northern Ireland: Blueprint for Eradication.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: "Bovine tuberculosis continues to have a significant impact on our farming industry, wildlife and wider society. I want to ensure that everyone with an interest in this issue has the opportunity to have their voice heard. I would encourage anyone who has not yet responded to the consultation to do so before it closes. Any decision I make will be science-led and evidence-based. The views received through this consultation will play an important role in informing my decision."

Notes to editors:

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a chronic infectious disease that primarily affects cattle but can also infect other species, including wildlife.
Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) is caused mainly by Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis).
Tackling bTB effectively is further complicated by the persistence of M.bovis in the environment with M.bovis remaining viable for up to 6 months in faeces along with the fact that it can be transmitted to and from wildlife such as badgers and deer.
Eradication of bTB remains a key priority for DAERA.
The Bovine Tuberculosis in Northern Ireland: Blueprint for Eradication can be read at: