Consultation on Draft TSE Regulations 2010

Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies, otherwise known as TSEs, are fatal brain diseases suffered by a variety of species, the most common being BSE (Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy) in cattle and Scrapie in sheep. Less common are scrapie in goats, Chronic Wasting Disease in Deer and Feline Spongiform Encephalopathy in cats.

The 2008 Regulations came into force on 1 January 2009.  They provide the powers necessary to administer and enforce the provisions of Regulation (EC) No.999/2001 which lays down rules for the prevention, control and eradication of certain transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (the “EU Community TSE Regulations”).

There have been a number of amendments to the EU Community TSE Regulations since the 2008 Regulations came into force.  These reflect the declining prevalence of BSE in cattle, new scientific advice and technical advances are in line with the European Commission’s TSE Roadmap .  The amendments include optional changes to the age threshold for BSE testing in cattle in some Member States, new controls on milk from sheep flocks and goats herds in which TSE is suspected or confirmed and more proportionate controls on animal feed.

Replies to this consultation are welcome and should be sent to Gerard Lennon by 18 June 2010 at:-

Gerard.Lennon@dardni.gov.uk

or by post to:-

Gerard Lennon

TSE Branch

Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

Room 722, Dundonald House

Upper Newtownards Road

BELFAST BT4 3SB