Round testing and pre-movement testing for brucellosis should end in 2015, according to the ICSA.

The farming organisation has called for an end to testing for the disease following a meeting with Department of Agriculture officials. It's understood Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney is actively considering a range of measures which should lead to the end of brucellosis testing in 2015.

ICSA animal health group chairman John Barron said the association "believes that it will be appropriate to end round testing for brucellosis in 2015, and we would also like to see an end to pre-movement testing for the disease, depending of course on progress in achieving brucellosis-free status in Northern Ireland.

“Brucellosis testing has been a huge cost for farmers over the years in terms of time and resources, and has interfered substantially with the mart trade. It will be very welcome to see an end to this, and most importantly, it highlights the success achieved by farmers and the Department in reaching this stage.”

The calls come as farmers in the Republic of Ireland could soon no longer have to test for brucellosis as the North pushes closer to obtaining official brucellosis free status. Read more here.