Regional Veterinary Lab Closure Likely

The closure of the regional veterinary lab in South East Clare is now one step closer to becoming a reality.

The working group reviewing the Department of Agriculture’s general laboratory services has backed rationalising the regional vet labs and relocating other services.

This would involve the closure of Knockalisheen near Meelick and two other facilities in Kilkenny and Sligo, if the green light is given by the Agriculture Minister.

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A nationwide review which looked into the future of the wider laboratory services of the Department of Agriculture has now concluded, and what had been feared by farmers in Clare now seems one step closer to a reality.

The expert group, which looked at three proposals, has recommended “rationalisation”, which would involve the closure of three vet labs in Knockalisheen, Kilkenny and Sligo, and expanding the remaining labs in Athlone and Cork.

A collection service has been proposed where farmers will be able to have fallen animals collected from the farm and brought to the laboratory for testing.

But not much detail has been given on this in the review group’s report, while details on when the closures would happen haven’t been made clear either.

The report has been seen by the Irish Farmers Journal and its News Correspondant Paul Mooney says one way or another the Agriculture Minister has a tough decision to make.

The ICSA will be among farmers groups meeting with the expert group next week and it’s General Secretary insists they will be fighting for the retention of the Knocklisheen facility.

Cratloeman Eddie Punch doesn’t accept that the fight has already been lost, saying a number of recommendations have been put forward, though he believes none of the options make economic sense.