“The news from Northern Ireland of these additional suspect cases of bluetongue in the infected herd is most unfortunate. Farmers in the area and indeed across the island will be rightly concerned at these developments. If bluetongue becomes established in any part of the island, it presents a threat of spread to other areas next spring and summer.”

“My department has been carrying out intensive surveillance for bluetongue across the country for two years now, and that surveillance is being ramped up in light of this finding. If bluetongue does arrive here, my goal is clear: to find it quickly and to eradicate it if possible, so as to protect Irish livestock and Irish farmers from the losses which this disease causes.”

“Bluetongue does not have any implications for food safety or human health. This disease does have a real impact on farmers whose flocks or herds are affected, however, due to the financial and emotional stress which accompanies the animal health and welfare consequences.”

“It is important to note that, because bluetongue is spread by midges, disease spread via insects is much less likely in the winter and early spring months.”