The progress in disease control in Northern Ireland and the measures taken by the Department of Agriculture in operating controls is discussed. Importation of livestock with its possible advantages or disadvantages is considered and evaluated and the need for strict supervision in testing stressed. The part played by the Department in the eradication of both tuberculosis and brucellosis is described emphasizing the necessity of co‐operation between producer and Department. The importance to the livestock industry of animal welfare in the control of disease is emphasize