Independent MEP for Ireland South Michael McNamara has called on Minister Martin Heydon and the Department of Agriculture to urgently revise the compensation caps for cattle culled due to TB, warning that the current limits are outdated and leave farmers exposed to major financial losses, adding that the scheme no longer reflects the reality of today’s market.
McNamara stated: “Farmers are facing losses into the thousands on high-value animals culled through no fault of their own. The €3,000 cap was agreed in a different era, but as the market has moved, so must the compensation scheme.”
McNamara noted recent calls from farming organisations including the IFA, ICMSA and ICSA, who have warned that the compensation system is no longer fair or sustainable. The Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association (ICSA) has proposed raising the standard cap to €5,000 and the pedigree cap to €7,000 to better reflect market values.
He also raised concerns over inconsistent valuations and implementation across different Regional Veterinary Offices, urging a more standardised national approach.
“At a time when farmers are being asked to do more for animal health, biodiversity, and sustainability, the least the State can do is ensure they are not left out of pocket when TB strikes,” McNamara said. “We need a fair system that works for today’s market valuations.”
In a letter to Minister Heydon this week, McNamara called for an immediate review of compensation caps; nationwide consistency in how valuations and compensation are applied by veterinary offices; a scheduled review mechanism; and structured engagement with farming organisations from the Department.
McNamara concluded: “Failing to adjust compensation exposes farmers to heavy losses for events outside their control and risks undermining confidence in the TB programme. At a time of record prices, now is the moment to ensure the system remains fair, sustainable, and credible.”
