January 8, 2010

Northern Irish agriculture minister, Michelle Gildernew, has issued a reminder to farmers of the risk of importing cattle or sheep, which may be exposed to the bluetongue virus.

The minister's message comes as the number of animals imported from mainland Europe has increased significantly in the last four weeks. She urged those involved in the importation of cattle and sheep to think carefully and consider the potential consequences of bringing bluetongue into the country.

Gildernew added that an outbreak of bluetongue virus would have major economic significance, as large restriction zones have to be declared. Furthermore, exports of susceptible animals and animal products, including milk products to certain markets, would be affected.

If this virus establishes itself in Ireland, the estimated costs to the industry would be around £25 million (US$35 million) annually.

Gildernew emphasised that Ireland have been diligent thus far in their efforts to keep the country free from bluetongue and they must not let their guard down. She understood farmers' desire to import breeding cattle and sheep to improve the quality of stock but they should weight that potential benefit against the risk posed by importing bluetongue. She recommended farmers to consider other safer alternatives such as import of semen or embryos.

Farmers who take the risks should remember that any imported animal found at post-import test to be infected with bluetongue virus, would be slaughtered as part of a disease control measure with no compensation being paid, Gildernew warned.

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) continues to monitor the situation carefully and maintain regular contact with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in Dublin to make sure that measures throughout the island are suitable and are adequate to protect their bluetongue free status.