Bovine TB testing and farm inspections by DAERA staff will not be cancelled under the latest coronavirus lockdown in NI, a department spokesperson has confirmed.

“There are no plans to change the current farm inspection arrangements. However, the position is kept under constant review,” the spokesperson told the Irish Farmers Journal.

DAERA has received criticism from some farmers over its approach of continuing to visit farms while DAERA direct offices are closed to the public.

The department spokesperson said that its inspections include measures to “mitigate COVID-19 risks” and any inspections, including TB testing, should not proceed if they cannot be conducted within public health agency guidance.

“In line with COVID restrictions, DAERA Direct Offices are currently not accessible for face-to-face services. However, customers can deposit papers/forms in the mail boxes at each of the DAERA Direct Offices,” the spokesperson said.