Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, , has today [Monday 7
January] announced £5m available through the Rural Development
Programme will be used to help eradicate sheep scab.
Sheep scab is
one of the most contagious disease of sheep in Wales and has been
identified as a disease priority by the Wales Animal Health and
Welfare Framework Group.
The funding is available to deliver an industry led project to
tackle the disease in Wales. The announcement follows an
industry proposal to eradicate sheep scab from Wales.
Further details of the project will be announced in the
forthcoming months following ongoing discussions with industry
representatives.
Announcing the funding, the Minister said: “Sheep scab has
significant economic consequences for sheep producers and animal
welfare issues for sheep. It is one of the most contagious
disease of sheep in Wales and eradicating it is a priority for us
and the industry.
“I’m pleased to be able to announce £5m Rural Development
Programme funding will be used to help support the industry
tackle the disease. Eradicating the disease has the
potential to deliver significant lasting economic benefits for
the sector at a particularly challenging time as we prepare to
leave the European Union.”
Notes
Sheep scab is considered an Economic Disease and flock owners and
sheep keepers are legally obliged to treat and control the
disease in their flocks.
