Joyce Watson AM comment ahead of badger cull announcement

Local Labour Assembly Member JOYCE WATSON AM has spoken ahead of Environment Minister John Griffiths’ expected statement on controlling TB in the Assembly this afternoon.
JOYCE WATSON AM (Mid and West Wales) said:
“I hope the Minister announces that we will review the science, and look at new steps forward which may make the introduction of a vaccination programme both sensible, cost-effective and avoid the cruelty and challenges associated with the proposed badger cull.
“Our manifesto for May’s assembly election promised a “science-led” approach towards bovine TB, and I have previously made clear my position that I don’t believe the case had been made to prove that a cull would work. The final report of the Independent Scientific Group concluded that culling was not sustainable in the long-term and could even spread TB, while a vaccination programme would reduce the instances of TB.”
“Stringent cattle-side measures have been introduced over the last few years, and I would like to see a review of the efficacy of these measures alongside a review of the latest science.
“We need to consider all options and work together to eradicate this horrible disease from Wales.”