Some observers may think this comment a bit harsh considering O’Connor inherited the M.bovis situation when he came into government. However, reports to the Hound suggest that the new minister’s insistence on restructuring MPI by April this year has led to confusion and a loss of focus amongst the MPI bureaucrats as they take their eyes off the M.bovis ball and worry more about their futures in the organisation. Farmers and others in the rural sector hit by M.bovis can rightly criticise, even rage, at O’Connor for not delaying this pointless review of MPI until the cattle disease is under control.
