Bluetongue movement rules relaxed in Northern Ireland

Animal movement restrictions linked to bluetongue virus (BTV) will be relaxed within the Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) in Northerrn Ireland following the completion of surveillance testing from today (Friday, 19 December).

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) confirmed that animals, except those that have tested positive for BTV or defined as “high risk”, will be permitted to move under a general licence within and out of the TCZ.

See also: More bluetongue cases found in Northern Ireland

High-risk animals include female cattle aged 18 months and older, bulls aged 14 months and older, breeding male sheep and goats, and pregnant females or breeding males among deer, llamas and alpacas.

Animals in these categories will still be allowed to move, but only under a specific licence and subject to additional conditions.

Chief veterinary officer Brian Dooher said: “With surveillance testing having now ended and noting we are now within the vector inactive period, I can confirm that we are able to relax the restrictions on movements inside and outside the zone.

“However, certain categories of cattle, sheep, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas will require other measures to qualify for movement, and I would urge farmers to familiarise themselves with those details on the Daera website.”

For movements out of the TCZ, cattle under 18 months, castrated males and bulls under 14 months may move without testing, vaccination or pregnancy checks.

Female cattle aged 18 months and older must have negative PCR and Elisa tests, proof of full vaccination, or veterinary certification confirming non-pregnancy.

Bulls aged 14 months and older require a negative PCR test.

All sheep except breeding males may move without testing, while breeding males must have a negative PCR test.

Agriculture minister Andrew Muir said the changes were intended to reduce disruption to farming and trade.

“Securing the relaxation of restrictions outside the TCZ last week and now inside the zone has been a priority, and these latest moves will go some way towards relieving the pressure on farmers,” he said.

He added that officials were continuing to work with affected herd keepers and industry representatives, and confirmed that potential financial support for farmers facing additional testing costs was being explored, with further announcements expected next week.