Bluetongue threatens Irish livestock

AS THE bluetongue virus continues to spread in Britain and other parts of Europe, the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association has warned of the threat it poses to the Irish livestock sector.

ICMSA Beef and Cattle Committee chairman, Martin McMahon, said the severity of the disease in the second and subsequent year has surprised veterinary experts: “We should seriously consider preventative vaccination for bluetongue as soon as the vaccine becomes available.”

Mr McMahon said he accepted that the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food is considering a number of options, but action should be taken at the first available opportunity.

“The EU Commission has decided to carry the cost in full of the vaccine and 50% of the administration costs. We should avail of this funding“, he said.

Mr McMahon said given the increasing severity of bluetongue, it makes sense to adopt a preventative stance.

He recalled that late last year, the EU rules regarding the movement of animals from infected areas to non-infected areas were relaxed.

“The ICMSA believes that Ireland may have to revisit this policy to strengthen our guard against the possible import of the disease. Bluetongue can and must be prevented from spreading to Ireland. We should take all necessary measures as soon as practicable.”