Another two new BSE cases brings total to 105

The number of BSE cases so far this year reached 105 this week with the discovery of another two infected animals.

The two new cases were found in Co Mayo and Co Cork. Both animals were eight-years-old.

Department of Agriculture scientists believe the numbers will continue to drop as the older cows, which were fed on infected meat and bonemeal prior to the end of 1997, work their way through the system.

"The underlying trend remains positive, and the increasing age profile of animals confirmed with the disease indicates that the enhanced controls introduced in 1996 and early 1997 are proving effective," a statement from the Department said in a statement this afternoon.

The Department said that since July 2001 over 1.63 million animals have been tested for the disease: 662,000 in 2001, 688,000 in 2002 and over 284,000 so far this year.