23 November 2007

2 minute read

Europe

Based on DARD’s latest veterinary risk assessment, livestock movements may now take place to all areas in Britain, without the need for the additional exporter bio-security declaration. The situation will be reviewed immediately if any new outbreaks of FMD occur.

A ban remains in place on the import of animals from Britain.

These livestock moves are, therefore, strictly on a one-way only basis and no animals will be permitted to return to the North. Any animals brought back here will be detained at the port and re-exported. Multiple drop-offs and tail-gating to transfer animals at any point on the route to another lorry is permitted in Scotland, but not in England and Wales.

All exporters must present a self-certified Declaration of Disinfection on return to Larne Port.

People travelling, and particularly farmers, food processors or their families, should maintain vigilance against the importation of Foot and Mouth Disease or Bluetongue, including through the movement of transport vehicles, equipment or people.

Before exporting animals to Britain, famers should consider whether the movements are essential to their business. If travel is a necessity, individuals must ensure that they practice good bio-security.

DARD continues to liaise and monitor the situation closely with Defra and other Devolved Administrations. The lifting of these restrictions are in line with the "Fortress Ireland" policy and we will constantly liaise with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in Dublin while keeping these measures under review.

Farmers and the rural community must remain vigilant, checking their stock daily, and maintaining strong bio-security. Any suspicion of disease must be reported immediately to your private vet or local Divisional Veterinary Office (DVO). Farmers must also adhere to strict tracing, tagging and bio-security arrangements. DARD will take action against offenders.