In this episode, Agriland editor, Stella Meehan sits down with chair of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) Animal Health Committee, TJ Maher to discuss bovine tuberculosis (TB), it’s impact, cost and future.

Maher explains the main sources and vectors of TB and the steps farmers themselves must take to ensure the disease is eradicated.

They also discuss the cost to the farmer of a TB reactor in the herd and what supports might be available to families as well as the possibility of a TB vaccine for cattle and the badger vaccination programme.

The fortnightly AgriFocus podcast series takes a closer look at some of the key issues that directly impact on farmers, rural communities and the agri-sector.

*This podcast is sponsored by AXA Farm Insurance