The ceiling on payouts on pedigree stock bulls lost due to a TB outbreak should be increased to ‘realistic’ levels, farm body the ICSA urged.

A number of concerns were raised at a recent meeting to discuss the Department of Agriculture’s proposed changes to the TB compensation scheme.

Under the new measures, in the case of a depopulation of a herd due to an outbreak the payments on individual animals would be increased from €2,800 to €3,000 and the ceiling for payment on a pedigree stock bull from €3,500 to €3,800.

“We’ve pushed for that to be increased up to €5,000, especially with the introduction of the Beef Data and Genomics Programme,” said general secretary of the ICSA, Eddie Punch.

He pointed out at the last Charolais sale before Christmas the average price for a pedigree bull paid was €4,900.

“There might only be 20 or 30 bulls in the year to go down with TB, however, it is a lot of money if the bull does go down,” said Mr Punch. “It should only be paid out in cases where the bull genuinely cost that type of money but €3,500 is unrealistic.”