Eradication of Bovine Tuberculosis in Ireland: Is It Now or Never?

Commentary Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Simon J. More

Primary Institution: Centre for Veterinary Epidemiology and Risk Analysis, School of Veterinary Medicine, UCD, University College Dublin

Can critical program changes lead to the successful eradication of bovine tuberculosis in Ireland?

Ireland will not be able to eradicate bovine tuberculosis given the current trajectory of infection in the national herd.

Bovine tuberculosis incidence in Ireland has sharply increased from a record low of 3.37% in 2015 to 5.06% in 2024.
31,414 reactor animals were detected in the year prior to May 2024, compared to 15,317 in 2015.
The total program costs for bTB eradication in 2023 were €108.4 million, with €74 million funded by the Exchequer.

Bovine tuberculosis is a big problem for cattle in Ireland, and if we don't make important changes soon, it might be impossible to get rid of it.

Political pressure and lobbying by farm organizations may influence program decisions.

Current approaches to cattle controls and program management are not aligned with international best practices.

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