Question to the Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs

Minister's Answer

Biosecurity is the first line of defence to protect livestock and business. Good biosecurity reduces the risk of the introduction and spread of disease. It is about taking all the efforts to reduce the risk of contact between disease-causing organisms and agents and susceptible animals, both from outside and inside the farm.

First, farmers can take measures such as minimising purchases and, where purchases are necessary, doing so from low-risk disease sources; good farm-boundary management; cleansing and disinfection of vehicles, equipment and people before entry on to their farm; and application of measures to control vermin and minimise contact with wildlife. Secondly, farmers can protect their livestock inside the farm by quarantining newly purchased animals to ensure that they are not carrying the disease with them; providing good standards of husbandry, hygiene and nutrition, thereby minimising stress on animals; promptly isolating and treating any sick animals and seeking veterinary attention as required; and improving immunity through vaccination protocols under veterinary direction.