New industry-led body on animal health

The creation of Animal Health and Welfare Northern Ireland(AHWNI), an industry-led initiative to deal with production animal diseases, has been welcomed by veterinary associations.

AHWNI was officially launched in September and has identified BVD and Johne's disease as initial priorities. It is chaired by former Ulsters Farmers Union President John Thompson, and includes veterinary representation through Brian McAuley, former President of the North of Ireland Veterinary Association (NIVA).

An implementation group has already been established, including representatives from the veterinary associations in Northern Ireland, and from Animal Health Ireland, to roll out a voluntary BVD eradication plan.

Past President of the BVA, Carl Padgett, commented: "AHWNI is a great example of the industry and the veterinary profession working together strategically to tackle the important production animal diseases. BVD and Johne’s disease are two of the major challenges in cattle health and productivity in Northern Ireland and we are pleased that AHWNI has identified them as priorities.

“We also welcome the cooperation and coordination with colleagues in the Republic of Ireland and support the all-island approach to controlling important health issues which recognises that the island is a single epidemiological unit.”

Bert Allison, president of NIVA, also welcomed the launch of AHWNI, describing it as "a huge step forward in tackling production animal disease in Northern Ireland."