Schmallenberg found in cattle

The first case of Schmallenberg (SBV) in a bovine in 2018 has been confirmed in NI by the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI).

A stillborn calf suffering from a foetal deformity in Fermanagh was found to be carrying the virus.

To date in 2018, AFBI has had 29 confirmed cases of SBV in sheep, although that represents only a fraction of the problem on many sheep farms this year.

Firearms process going online

The paper application process for initial, re-grant and variations to firearms certificates in NI is to be dropped from 9 July 2018.

The PSNI introduced an online process for firearm applications in January 2017 and it says a “growing majority” of the 12,000 firearms applications received each year are now online. The PSNI is planning a series of roadshow events across NI to demonstrate the online application process to firearms holders.

All quiet on RHI solutions

The group representing recipients of the non-domestic Renewable Heat Incentive has had no communication from the Department for the Economy (DfE) on a long-term solution to tariff levels and the scheme overspend.

Plans for a consultation process involving the Renewable Heat Association for NI (RHANI) were put forward by the then DfE permanent Secretary Andrew McCormick in January. “We have received none of the promised communications from DfE,” a note circulated among RHANI members last week read.

The update also stated that RHANI has received no response on its proposal to work with DfE, scheme administers OFGEM, and boiler inspectors Ricardo AEA, to promote best practice and scheme compliance among its members.