By Róise Collins
THERE are fears that the rising levels of Tuberculosis (TB) in animals in Donegal could be connected to the growing number of deer in the county.
The concerns were raised at a recent meeting of Donegal County Council’s Agriculture committee by Cathaoirleach of the Glenties Municipal District, Councillor Michael McClafferty who renewed his calls for the government to tackle Donegal’s rising level of deer.
The independent Councillor told the meeting of agricultural stakeholders that because deer are known carriers of TB he fears that they could be responsible for rising TB levels amongst other animals including cattle.
Cllr McClafferty told the Donegal News that it is no coincidence that both TB and the number of deer are on the rise.
He claimed that thousands of deer are currently roaming throughout the county, untagged, unregistered and untested. This is something he stressed is not acceptable with farmers in regard to their cattle.
Councillor McClafferty urged the council to make representations to the Department of Agriculture to tackle the growing problem by introducing an early cull, focusing on stags who he said are the root of the growing problem.
He has also recently written to Donegal TD and Agriculture Minister, Charlie McConalogue regarding the implementation of a policy targeting deer in Donegal but has yet to receive a response.
He praised farmers who he said are doing their best, and reiterated that the ball is now in the government’s court.
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