DAERA to permit some animal movement amid bluetongue outbreak
Decisions are in response to scientific advice and surveillance data.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is to allow more animal movement in Northern Ireland, following reports of bluetongue on two premises.
Farmers outside of the designated Temporary Control Zones (TCZs) will now be permitted to move livestock to Great Britain, while the movement of animals into the TCZs will also be permitted.
DAERA says the decisions have been made in response to scientific advice and ongoing surveillance data. It has also recently consulted with authorities and stakeholders of Great Britain.
The ruling will mean all types of livestock movement from farmers outside the TCZ will be permitted into Great Britain, with no requirements beyond those usually in place. This includes moves for slaughter, markets, breeding and production.
Those intending to move livestock to Great Britain must consult a private veterinary practitioner as normal.
Meanwhile, farmers planning to move livestock into the two 20km TCZs in County Down are now permitted to do so. They must use a general licence, downloaded from DAERA’s website.
Brian Dooher, chief veterinary officer, 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.”
“Midges spread BTV but AFBI has now confirmed we are in the vector low period and this, coupled with ongoing results from our surveillance activities and colder weather, mean that from today, livestock outside of the TCZs can trade with Great Britain. Livestock will also be permitted to move into the current TCZs. Licences are available on the DAERA website.”
DAERA officials are reported to be in contact with key stakeholders, as the organisation considers the potential for movement within or out of the current TCZs.
However movement within and out of the TCZ remains prohibit, with the exceptions of direct movements to slaughter. DAERA is to continue surveillance and stakeholder engagement as it makes future decisions.
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