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.