The Ulsters Farmers’ Union (UFU) has “cautiously welcomed” the decision to lift cross-border livestock movement restrictions for breeding and production, which were introduced as a result of previous bluetongue outbreaks.
Cross-border movements for bluetongue susceptible animals, such as cattle and sheep, have recommenced today (Friday, March 6) from 9.00a.m onwards.
The UFU said it supports the introduction of reciprocal derogations between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland as cross-border trade, which has been disrupted in recent weeks due to the restrictions, is “vital for many livestock farmers”.
This derogation also permits the free movement of livestock from bluetongue-affected EU member states that have only detected the BTV-3 strain within their national herd.
Additional requirements will be necessary for any imports from EU member states which have additional strains of BTV circulating.
Across the waters, the movements of live animals from Great Britain to Northern Ireland remains suspended as a result of recent confirmed cases of BTV-3 in England and Wales.
Northern Ireland
The decision to lift restrictions was made yesterday by ministers from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), following extensive stakeholder engagement.
DAERA also announced that the Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) in Co. Down will be lifted at the same time as the cross-border restrictions today.
The removal of this TCZ will once again allow livestock to move freely within Northern Ireland under a general licence.
UFU
While recognising the news as a “positive development for the sector”, the UFU has reminded farmers to stay vigilant as bluetongue remains a notifiable disease.
The union has also encouraged members to work closely with their private veterinary practitioner and to continue sourcing animals responsibly, especially if they are considering importing from mainland Europe.
According to the UFU, there is a serious risk to Northern Ireland food security if diseases are brought into the country and members should avoid importing susceptible animals from mainland Europe if possible.
