Bluetongue restriction relief for some farmers

Some animal movements are to be permitted under licence, after outbreaks of bluetongue virus in County Down.

The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) confirmed the risk of new infection had reduced due to colder weather.

Farmers outside the two temporary control zones near Bangor and Greyabbey will now be able to move livestock to Great Britain under the usual arrangements.

Animals may also be moved into the temporary control zones.

Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher said bluetongue virus had significant impact on the agri-food sector as a result of the restrictions.

Moves of susceptible livestock off farms in the two temporary control zones are still prohibited, with moves direct to slaughter permitted under a general licence.

Bluetongue virus is spread by biting midges and can affect cattle, sheep, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas.

Sheep can be particularly badly affected, while cattle may display no symptoms.

The virus poses no risk to public health or food safety.

The midge is most active from April to September, with the potential for spread depending on climatic conditions and wind patterns.

Mr Dooher said the ongoing results from surveillance, along with colder weather, had made the change to movement restrictions possible.

"Officials remain in close contact with key stakeholders regarding next steps including the potential for animal movements within, and moves out of, the current temporary control zones.

"Currently movements within and out of the temporary control zones are prohibited, with the exception of direct movements to slaughter only permitted.

"Ongoing surveillance in the zones, in addition to further stakeholder engagement, will support decisions on the way ahead and this will be communicated with industry in the immediate days ahead."

The change means farmers may now move livestock to Great Britain to slaughter, markets and for breeding and production, with immediate effect.

Licences for movements are available through the Daera , externalwebsite.

Cattle classes at the annual Winter Fair this week have been cancelled as a result of the restrictions.