Key actors in driving behavioural change in relation to on-farm biosecurity; a Northern Ireland perspective
Date
2018-06-14
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Publisher
BMC
Abstract
Background: Agriculture and farming are valued contributors to local economy in Northern Ireland (NI). There is
limited knowledge about farmers’ behaviours and attitudes towards disease biosecurity measures. As part of a larger
project, a scenario-based workshop with key stakeholders was organised by the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute
(AFBI)-NI in December 2015.
Results: A total of 22 participants belonging to 12 different institutions took part in the workshop. Participants were
presented with an overview of previously conducted biosecurity research in NI and England. In small groups,
participants were subsequently asked to discuss and give their opinions about a series of questions across four
key areas in a semi-structured approach with an external facilitator. The key areas were 1- disease risk perception
at the farm level; 2-perceived barriers to implementing on farm biosecurity measures; 3- avenues to successful
behaviour change and 4-key industry responsibilities and roles. The discussion showed that training in biosecurity
for farmers is important and necessary. Training was recommended to be provided by veterinary surgeons, preferably
via a face-to-face format. The discussion addressing disease disclosure proved particularly challenging between those
who were prospective buyers of cattle, and those who sold cattle.
Conclusions: This workshop provided a unique and invaluable insight into key issues regarding farm level biosecurity
activities. From a policy perspective, delivering improved on-farm biosecurity must be addressed via a multidisciplinary
approach. This can only be achieved with active involvement, commitment and support of a number of key industry
and government stakeholders.
Description
Publication history: Accepted - 29 May 2018; Published online - 14 June 2018
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Keywords
Biosecurity, Disease prevention, Animal health, Farmer behaviour, Training, Workshop
Citation
Lahuerta-Marin, A., Brennan, M. L., Finney, G., O’Hagan, M. J. H. and Jack, C. (2018) ‘Key actors in driving behavioural change in relation to on-farm biosecurity; a Northern Ireland perspective’, Irish Veterinary Journal, 71(1). doi: 10.1186/s13620-018-0125-1.