A new Bovine Tuberculosis (TB) Eradication Programme Board has been established for Wales and will be chaired by a farmer as it serves as the latest development in reaching a TB-free Wales, the government has said.
The news was confirmed today (Monday, August 12) by Welsh Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies.
It follows the formation of the Bovine TB Technical Advisory Group in April and completes the governance structure for the programme set out in the TB Eradication Programme Delivery Plan published in March 2023.
Board members will be confirmed in due course, but Irranca-Davies said he intended for the board to largely be made up of farmers from different parts of Wales and people from farming backgrounds, adding that the board will be chaired by a farmer.
Speaking ahead of travelling to the Anglesey Agricultural Show and Pembrokeshire County Show, Irranca-Davies said: ” I am particularly happy to make this announcement as it shows our clear commitment to listening to industry and placing partnership working at the very centre of the Bovine TB eradication programme.
“Since my appointment I have been keen to meet farmers, vets and industry and listened to their concerns regarding the burden and anxieties of TB.
“Recognising the impact on farmers, their families and their businesses is at the forefront of my mind.”
Bovine TB Eradication Programme Board
Officials representing three industry organisations – the National Farmers’ Union Cymru (NFU Cymru), Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) and the British Veterinary Association (BVA) Welsh branch – will also be appointed.
There will also be the chief Vvterinary officer for Wales as well as a member representing the Welsh government and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) respectively.
The board will meet quarterly and provide strategic advice to the Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs.
Early priorities for the board will include considering the Technical Advisory Group’s advice in relation to the six-yearly review of Wales’ TB eradication targets and exploring how to improve communication and engagement with farmers and vets.
