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Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, today confirmed that bluetongue has been detected in an animal imported from the Netherlands.

The animal has tested positive for the virus following routine post-import testing undertaken by DARD. Minister Gildernew said: “I acted decisively yesterday following suspicion of disease, to have the animal slaughtered to minimise any risk to other livestock.” “I have restricted the herd and all of the animals will now be tested for any other evidence of infection. The Department will also now be tracing and testing associated herds. Meanwhile an epidemiological investigation has begun to assess the situation. This investigation will help determine if disease is circulating but at this time there is no evidence to suggest that it is.”

“Therefore at this time the North’s ‘bluetongue free’ status remains.”

The Minister said: “I cannot stress enough the importance of farmers remaining vigilant for signs of the disease. I would continue to urge all farmers to think very carefully before importing susceptible animals from Bluetongue infected countries. Remember, if you import an infected animal DARD will NOT pay compensation if that animal has to be slaughtered. That advice is now more important than ever - it is the responsibility of farmers to ensure they do not bring Bluetongue to the North.” For further information from the DARD website click here