54 Mr. D. Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the progress which is being achieved towards the reduction of tuberculosis and brucellosis levels in cattle; if current measures are sufficiently proactive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18492/01]

My Department is committed to meeting the objectives agreed under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness to reduce the current incidence of tuberculosis by 50% in the worst affected areas and to progress towards the eradication of brucellosis. In relation to both tuberculosis and brucellosis, resources are being assigned to carrying out investigative work into the causes of herd breakdowns, and to taking a pro-active approach to the removal of all sources of infection. Current procedures and practices will continue to ensure the gradual reduction in the incidence of tuberculosis and brucellosis, and these will be augmented by new research and testing methods.