UFU seeks clarity on bluetongue movement rules in NI

Farmers in Northern Ireland say they are being left in the dark around bluetongue restrictions, following limited communication from Daera on animal movements.

Cases of bluetongue virus in livestock were first discovered in Northern Ireland last November and there have been five confirmed infected premises to date.

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has warned that farmers are being left in a state of uncertainty with little to no meaningful communication from Daera in the past two weeks.

See also: More bluetongue cases found in Northern Ireland

UFU deputy president Glenn Cuddy said: “We have formally asked Daera for clarity, yet farmers are still waiting for answers.

“At present, Daera cannot give us a clear answer on the trade implications with the Republic of Ireland, nor on east-west movements between Northern Ireland and mainland Britain.”

Livestock movements in Northern Ireland are generally permitted both inside and outside the temporary control zone, although restrictions still apply for “high-risk” animals.

Mr Cuddy said farmers need to know where they stand on movements north-south, and east-west, and how this will affect trade and market access.

“Daera must engage properly with farmers and the industry, explain the position clearly, and provide certainty wherever possible,” he added.

Daera confirmed to Farmers Weekly that the current bluetongue outbreak means that the requirements of the animal health certificates cannot be fulfilled for the movement of cattle and sheep from Northern Ireland to EU member states for breeding and production.

However, cattle and sheep are permitted to move to member states for direct slaughter.

A Daera spokesperson said: “Daera officials have remained in close and regular contact with stakeholders, and with counterparts in both the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain in relation to the current disease situation, control strategies and next steps.

“Stakeholders were asked for views on the application of a derogation [which would permit moves of animals from all of the EU] and on the continued maintenance of the existing temporary control zone, to help inform next steps.

“Stakeholders requested further information from authorities in Great Britain, which Daera is facilitating.”