ICSA Animal Health and Welfare chair John Barron has welcomed the launch of the 2026 Biosecurity Targeted Advisory Service for Animal Health (TASAH) and is encouraging cattle and sheep farmers to make use of the free veterinary advice available under the scheme. “This scheme gives farmers access to veterinary advice at no cost. It's there to be used and farmers should make the most of it," he said.

 The scheme includes a farm visit and consultation with a trained veterinary practitioner covering parasite control, TB biosecurity and disease prevention measures.

 Mr Barron said the scheme is relevant to all livestock farmers, including beef, suckler and sheep farmers. “These types of programmes are often associated with dairy farming, but the advice available is just as useful for drystock farmers. The parasite control consultations alone can help farmers improve animal performance, reduce unnecessary treatments and make better decisions on their farms. Farmers can also use the consultation to discuss vaccination programmes and other herd health measures with their vet.”

 He said an independent veterinary assessment can help spot issues farmers may not have noticed. “Good biosecurity is an important part of keeping disease out of a farm and anything that helps farmers strengthen it is worth taking up. These free consultations can show farmers practical measures that improve animal health and reduce disease risks.”

 Farmers interested in taking part can register through Animal Health Ireland and should contact their veterinary practitioner for further information on the consultations available.

 Mr Barron also reminded farmers that the closing date for applications under the On-Farm Badger Biosecurity Scheme is Sunday, 7 June. “Anything that helps reduce TB risk is worth checking out. Farmers should take a look at what the scheme has to offer and get their applications in before the deadline,” he said.