Number of badgers captured and culled in Kilkenny revealed

Thirty-six (36) badgers were captured and culled last year in Kilkenny, according to recently released figures.

Thirteen (13) badgers were also captured and culled in the county so far this year.

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Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue released the figures following a recent query in the Dáil from Deputy Holly Cairns.

The Minister stated that 'no badgers were found dead in stopped body restraints and all badgers were dispatched in accordance with the terms of our licence from the National Parks and Wildlife service'.

"I am committed to reducing TB incidence rates across the country," he said.

"There is a terrible financial and emotional pain associated with a TB breakdown.

"We have made good strides since I launched the new TB Strategy in 2021 with all stakeholders working collectively and collegially to reduce TB rates. We must keep this going with the ultimate aim of eradicating TB from the herd."

McConalogue added that 'badger vaccination is being substituted for continued culling of badgers such that a significant reduction in the numbers of badgers culled can be achieved over the coming years while still maintaining effective control of the risk posed to cattle'.