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BACK OFF BADGERS 

 

 

 

Update on Wales badger cull. We are now entering the period close to the start of the cull of badgers. The Welsh Assembly has established an Intensive Action Pilot Area (IPA) as part of a strategy to tackle bovine tuberculosis (TB) in cattle. In this area the removal of badgers will take place alongside cattle disease control measures. The location of the IPA is mainly in north Pembrokeshire but will also include areas of Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire. I wanted to update you with some actions that are occurring and ensuring there is a corporate RSPCA message on the cull. The RSPCA remains firmly against any cull of badgers in Wales. We donot believe that the virtual elimination of badgers over very extensive areas of countryside is a sustainable policy approach to dealing withthis disease and, crucially, as other TB reduction methods such as cattle control measures are also being used at the same time it will be impossible to establish which control measure worked and so how effective the cull was. However, we are worried that this ‘pilot'cull will mistakenly be seen to set an example and there will be pressure to roll it out to other parts of Wales.The decision for the cull was made in principle in 2008 and since then WAG has continued to make announcements defining where and when the cull will occur. The WAG has promised to use only the most humane methods ofculling and we will be monitoring their delivery on this promise. We are also continuing to support vaccination which we believe provides areal opportunity to deal with bovine TB in wildlife. The RSPCA has continued, and will continue, to oppose each announcement through its press, Assembly and campaign work but as there is a large majority inthe Assembly for the cull the policy is unlikely to alter. There are a number of actions you or your Branch can take: 1- contact your AM either by letter or in your constituency to make your view known. 2- use the RSPCA campaign badger website (www.giveanimalsavoice.org.uk)to lobby your AM . Further information can be obtained from info@savethebadger.com or http://www.savethebadger.com  

David Bowles RSPCA

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