Proposals have been outlined by DAERA which would pass the cost of sampling for BSE testing of fallen stock onto the farming industry.

EU-born cattle over 48 months old that die in circumstances other than for human consumption are tested for BSE at rendering sites before incineration.

The government covers the cost of sampling, transporting samples to laboratories and testing. Rendering companies are paid £6.50 per animal by the government for taking the sample of the animal’s brain.

A consultation published last week proposes that the £6.50 per sample fee is no longer paid by the government so that renderers either absorb the cost of sampling themselves or else pass it on to farmers through an increased disposal charge.

The proposals state that the cost of transporting samples to laboratories and the test itself will still be covered by the government. The consultation is available on the DAERA website and closes to responses on 22 April 2018.

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DAERA consultation on BSE testing

A consultation published last week proposes that a £6.50 per animal fee be no longer paid by the government to knackeries.