1 MARCH 2017

ICSA is to mount a protest today in opposition to the possible closure of the Regional Veterinary Laboratory in Coosan, Athlone, Co. Westmeath.

Speaking ahead of the protest, ICSA Westmeath chairman Dan Lynam said  “ICSA believes the focus should be on enhancing services for farmers not removing them. Over recent years farmers have been endeavouring to improve their stock, particularly through schemes such as BDGP and Knowledge Transfer and now the new sheep welfare scheme, so when an on farm death occurs they need to be able to receive a prompt diagnosis. It is a resource that must be protected and ICSA is determined to keep up the pressure so that the service here and at all the other regional labs is retained.”

The protest will coincide with a visit to the facility by Department of Agriculture officials.

The protest will commence this morning (Wed) at 10.30am.

Dan Lynam can be contacted on 087 9660790.

ENDS