REVISED FMD RULES SEE LIVESTOCK MARKETS RE-OPEN

AS the threat from foot-and-mouth recedes from Northern Ireland’s shores the Agriculture Minister Bríd Rodgers has approved plans for a phased re-opening of livestock markets.

Farmers in the province have broadly welcomed the plans, which see the sale of live cattle and pigs resume on 30 July.

President of the Ulster Farmer’s Union (UFU) Douglas Rowe said: “This is a major step in the right direction and cattle and pig producers can now plan for the 30 July date. We are very pleased on behalf of local producers that livestock markets will recommence.”

However Mr Rowe added that he was disappointed that the resumption of general sheep markets depended upon the outcome of a review next month. He added: “I am very disappointed that the situation for sheep producers is less clear. We had hoped that a date for sheep sales would also have been announced.

“Livestock markets and field sales for sheep are also very important and we will continue to press for more definite progress on this front, particularly in light of the encouraging FMD serology tests from the Province’s sheep flock”.

The revised guidelines also take account of the impending main holiday period and remind the public of the need for continuing vigilance on farms, ports and airports.

The guidelines stress that people are being encouraged to enjoy what the Northern Ireland countryside has to offer but emphasise that it is essential to stay away from farm animals.

Cleansing and disinfection measures are also to remain in place at ports and airports and on board ferries. These precautions, along with strict controls on the importation of live susceptible animals and their products, will be required until the Foot and Mouth crisis in Great Britain has ended. Farmers have also been reminded of the need to continue ‘Fortress Farming’. (AMcE)