Athlone-based Senator, Gabrielle McFadden, has called on the Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed, to protect the Regional Veterinary Office in Coosan.
Speaking in the Seanad last Thursday (February 23 ), Senator McFadden underlined the importance of the role played by the office.
“It provides a hugely valuable service to the farming community of the Midlands such as determining the causes of livestock deaths and monitoring the potential spread of infectious diseases,” she said. “This is of value not only to farmers, but to the population at large. Protecting the safety of Irish food and the interests of consumers is at the core of agri-food industry in Ireland.
“Central to maintaining rural communities is the sustainable development of a competitive farming and consumer-focused agri-food business, which contributes to a vibrant rural economy and society. The laboratory in Coosan and its staff are of the highest standard and are well placed to provide a professional service to the Midlands and further afield.”
Senator McFadden added that she has taken up the matter directly with Minister Creed as well as raising it in the Seanad, and that she remains hopeful of a positive outcome.
