A new Bovine TB Eradication Programme Board has been established
for Wales and is the latest development in reaching the shared
goal of a a TB-free Wales.
The news was confirmed today by , Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and
Rural Affairs, ahead of a week attending agricultural shows
across Wales.
It follows the formation of the Bovine TB Technical Advisory
Group in April and completes the governance structure for the
programme set out in the TB Eradication Programme Delivery Plan
published in March 2023.
Speaking ahead of travelling to the Anglesey Agricultural Show
and Pembrokeshire County Show, the Cabinet Secretary said: " I am
particularly happy to make this announcement as it shows our
clear commitment to listening to industry and placing partnership
working at the very centre of the Bovine TB eradication
programme.
“Since my appointment I have been keen to meet farmers, vets and
industry and listened to their concerns regarding the burden and
anxieties of TB. Recognising the impact on farmers, their
families and their businesses is at the forefront of my mind.”
Board members will be confirmed in due course, but the Cabinet
Secretary said he intended for the Board to largely be made up of
farmers from different parts of Wales and people from farming
backgrounds. The Board will be chaired by a farmer.
Officials representing three, key industry organisations - the
National Farmers Union Cymru, Farmers' Union of Wales and the
British Veterinary Association Welsh branch - will also be
appointed.
There will also be the Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales and a
member representing the Welsh Government and the Animal and Plant
Health Agency respectively.
The Board will meet quarterly and provide strategic advice to the
Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs.
Early priorities for the Board will include considering the
Technical Advisory Group's advice in relation to the six-yearly
review of Wales' TB eradication targets and exploring how to
improve communication and engagement with farmers and vets.
