Some animal movements to resume following bluetongue cases

Some animal movements are to be permitted to resume following the discovery of the bluetongue virus in Northern Ireland.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) said farmers outside designated temporary control zones (TCZs) will now be able to move livestock to Great Britain with no requirements beyond those normally in place.

Bluetongue (BTV) was confirmed at a herd near to Bangor, Co Down, last week and there has been another suspected case on a farm close to Greyabbey.

Two 20km TCZs have been introduced in Co Down around the sites.

Daera said the movement of susceptible livestock on or off farms in the two TCZs is still prohibited while moves direct to slaughter remain permitted under a general licence.

A statement said: “With immediate effect, farmers outside the TCZs will be able to move livestock to Great Britain with no requirements beyond those normally in place.

“All types of these movements can now take place to GB including moves to slaughter, markets and for breeding and production.

“Those who wish to export livestock to GB should contact their private veterinary practitioner in the normal manner.”

The department said movements of animals into the two 20km TCZs in County Down will also be permitted, using a general licence that can be downloaded from its website.

Chief veterinary officer Brian Dooher said: “The recent bluetongue incursion has had a significant impact on the agri-food sector arising from the necessary movement restrictions and resultant trade barriers.”

He added: “Officials remain in close contact with key stakeholders regarding next steps including the potential for animal movements within, and moves out of, the current TCZs.

“Currently movements within and out of the TCZ are prohibited, with the exception of direct movements to slaughter only permitted.

“Ongoing surveillance in the zones, in addition to further stakeholder engagement, will support decisions on the way ahead and this will be communicated with industry in the immediate days ahead.”

Bluetongue is an animal disease that affects livestock including cattle and sheep, as well as goats, deer and llamas.

It does not affect humans or food safety and is primarily transmitted through midges.