New grant for Welsh livestock markets
The grant forms part of a comprehensive range of measures set out by the Welsh government to control TB in the country.
Livestock markets in Wales are now able to apply for a grant to upgrade their facilities to enable them to display TB information of animals being sold.
The 'Informed Purchasing' grant will help markets purchase equipment, such as display boards and screens, where the TB history of animals can be displayed.
Deputy Minister for Farming and Food, Rebecca Evans, said: "This grant will help enable markets to make this information readily available at the point of sale to help famers make more informed buying decisions and consider what precautions they may need to take."
The grant forms part of a comprehensive range of measures set out by the Welsh government to control TB in the country. These include annual testing, cattle movement restrictions free bio-security advice to farmers and badger vaccination.
Since 2009, there has been decline in the number of new herd incidents and total number of animals slaughtered for TB control, which indicates that the programme is working.
Markets are now able to apply for the grant and will be able to do so until 1 June. Those successful can receive up to 50 per cent of the eligible costs. The maximum amount of funding available per site is £2,500.
The grant can also be used for other activities, such as events and advice to buyers, which will encourage farmers to share TB information.
For more information, visit the Welsh government's bTB website.
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