The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has urged farmers to remain vigilant for signs of bluetongue in their herds and flocks as he called on DAERA to keep strong lines of communication open on any developments to Northern Ireland’s bluetongue situation.
The statement follows the creation of a 20km temporary control zone in Co Down from 9pm Saturday after the discovery of a suspected case of bluetongue-3 near Bangor.
It also comes after all cattle and sheep exports from NI to Britain have been banned.
Exports from NI to the south are banned for any reason other than those headed directly for slaughter, with even these finished livestock movements requiring a 48-hour advance notice.
The UFU’s president William Irvine warned farmers of the seriousness of the disease situation after the union met with DAERA veterinary officials on the precautionary measures in place as lab test results are awaited from samples taken at the suspected case farm.
“This is a serious disease and we recognise the concern it will cause among farmers and the wider agri food industry,” Irvine stated.
“Our priority is to stay fully informed as DAERA’s investigations progress and to ensure members receive accurate updates as more information becomes available."
Irvine pledged close co-operation with DAERA as he recognised the “urgency of the situation”.
“We are also calling on DAERA to communicate directly and quickly with all farmers inside the temporary control zone and to provide a dedicated helpline so that those affected can access clear advice on what these restrictions mean for their businesses.
“We will maintain regular engagement with the department in the days ahead and will communicate key developments to members as they are confirmed.”
The UFU said that those with concerns should contact their private vet, local divisional veterinary office or the DAERA helpline at on 0300 200 7840.
Read more
Live exports from Northern Ireland suspended due to bluetongue
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Suspected bluetongue case in Co Down under investigation
Bluetongue disease: what it is and how does it spread?
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has urged farmers to remain vigilant for signs of bluetongue in their herds and flocks as he called on DAERA to keep strong lines of communication open on any developments to Northern Ireland’s bluetongue situation.
The statement follows the creation of a 20km temporary control zone in Co Down from 9pm Saturday after the discovery of a suspected case of bluetongue-3 near Bangor.
It also comes after all cattle and sheep exports from NI to Britain have been banned.
Exports from NI to the south are banned for any reason other than those headed directly for slaughter, with even these finished livestock movements requiring a 48-hour advance notice.
The UFU’s president William Irvine warned farmers of the seriousness of the disease situation after the union met with DAERA veterinary officials on the precautionary measures in place as lab test results are awaited from samples taken at the suspected case farm.
“This is a serious disease and we recognise the concern it will cause among farmers and the wider agri food industry,” Irvine stated.
“Our priority is to stay fully informed as DAERA’s investigations progress and to ensure members receive accurate updates as more information becomes available."
Irvine pledged close co-operation with DAERA as he recognised the “urgency of the situation”.
“We are also calling on DAERA to communicate directly and quickly with all farmers inside the temporary control zone and to provide a dedicated helpline so that those affected can access clear advice on what these restrictions mean for their businesses.
“We will maintain regular engagement with the department in the days ahead and will communicate key developments to members as they are confirmed.”
The UFU said that those with concerns should contact their private vet, local divisional veterinary office or the DAERA helpline at on 0300 200 7840.
Read more
Live exports from Northern Ireland suspended due to bluetongue
Critical 'everything is done to prevent bluetongue spread' - IFA
Suspected bluetongue case in Co Down under investigation
Bluetongue disease: what it is and how does it spread?
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