Financial support announced for testing of livestock at risk of bluetongue

Financial support has been announced for testing of high-risk animals for bluetongue in Northern Ireland.

It comes after some relaxation of bluetongue restrictions in the region.

It was announced on December 18 that animals could move out of the temporary control zone (TCZ) subject to certain additional requirements, such as proof of a negative pregnancy test, negative testing or proof of previous bluetongue vaccination.

The Department of Agriculture said private veterinary practitioners will be able to administer any required pre-movement sampling, with the laboratory cost of the tests now payable by the department for a limited period.

Stormont Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said he has issued a ministerial directive.

“The measures announced last month permitted the movement of animals out of the TCZ with a controlled approach taken for high-risk animals to protect Northern Ireland herds/flocks within the free area safeguarding animal health and welfare,” he said.

“This also provides a window for livestock keepers to consult with their private veterinary practitioner on vaccination.

“Conscious of the ongoing financial impact on farmers in the area, I have now issued a ministerial direction requiring my officials to put in place arrangements to meet the laboratory costs for any pre-movement testing of high-risk animals moving out of the zone.

“This is a unique situation based on current circumstances and is short term in nature to provide targeted sector specific support.”

Chief veterinary officer Brian Dooher said: “It is anticipated that the additional requirements for high-risk animals moving out of the TCZ will be in place during the vector low period with the costs for laboratory testing of pre-movement animals covered until then.

“In spring it will be likely that we are approaching the end of the vector low period, increasing the risk of BTV spread beyond the current TCZ.

“At that juncture and based on further veterinary assessment future decisions will be made with regards to retention of the zone.

“The minister has directed that laboratory tests associated with the pre-movement testing of high-risk animals out of the zone be met until that point or until whenever the TCZ be removed, whichever is sooner.”