Animal trade between Ireland and Northern Ireland to recommence

Since Ireland confirmed its first Bluetongue Virus Serotype 3 in January, only movements of cattle and sheep direct to slaughter have been allowed

Cattle and sheep trade between Ireland and the North will resume on March 6. 

Cattle and sheep trade between Ireland and Northern Ireland will recommence on March 6, 2026.

Minister for agriculture, Martin Heydon, and minister for agriculture, environment and rural affairs, Andrew Muir, announced that movement of cattle and sheep, for production and breeding, between Ireland and Northern Ireland can recommence from March 6.