Bluetongue virus movement restrictions eased

Bluetongue virus (BTV) restrictions on animal movements are to be eased in Northern Ireland.

It follows several weeks of surveillance testing, after the initial detection of the disease at Clandeboye Estate near Bangor.

From Friday 19 December all animals, except those that have tested positive for BTV, will be free to move within and out of the Temporary Control Zone (TCZ), under general licence.

But some high-risk animals will still be subject to certain additional requirements.

Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said officials have been asked to explore any potential financial support to assist farmers with such animals.

There have now been four confirmed detentions of BTV which is spread by biting midges.

Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher said the relaxation of movement restrictions had come after a further risk assessment, following completion of surveillance testing in the TCZ.

"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," he said.

"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."

Additional requirements are in place for moving animals that fall under a high-risk category.

For cattle, that includes all females aged 18 months and older, and bulls aged 14 months and older.

Breeding male sheep and goats are classed as high-risk.

And for deer, llamas and alpacas, pregnant females and breeding males will require a specific licence.

Depending on the animal category, those requirements include either proof of a negative pregnancy test, or negative pre-movement testing or proof of previous bluetongue vaccination.

Daera vets and officials are working with farmers on the affected sites where BTV was detected.

Muir said given the impact on trade, the easing of restrictions had been a priority.

"These latest moves will go some way towards relieving the pressure on farmers.

"While this will be welcome news for farmers in the area, I acknowledge the additional costs for high-risk animals to meet the conditions for movement.

"I have therefore asked my officials to urgently explore if there is any potential financial support to assist farmers."

An update is expected within the week.