Coveney says no plans to close RVLs
“A working group has been established to review the best way to provide laboratory diagnostic services to farmers,” he told Dáil Eireann last week. As would be expected they are looking at a range of options on how best to do this and will make their recommendations in due course.
“However, as I have publicly stated previously, I do not intend to close any regional veterinary laboratories.”
The Minister was replying in the Dáil to a question from Independent Roscommon-South Leitrim TD Denis Naughten on plans for closure of the laboratories.
IFA Animal Health Chairman Bert Stewart has said the Department of Agriculture regional veterinary laboratory services are a highly regarded, vital support for farmers throughout the country and it is not acceptable that the Department of Agriculture would seek to reduce their role and support structures for farmers.
He said the strategically located regional veterinary laboratory structure facilitates the convenient and timely submission of samples by farmers and their vets when urgent, accurate and independent diagnosis of on-farm problems is required.
