“The news of a suspect bluetongue outbreak in Northern Ireland is unwelcome. My thoughts are first and foremost with the affected farm family, and those farmers in the locality who will be worried about their own herds now. This development has potentially serious implications. If the disease becomes established in one part of the island, it will be that much easier for it to spread, with consequences for animal health and welfare, and financial and emotional stress for farmers. However, I must emphasise that bluetongue does not have any implications for human health or food safety”.

“I will be engaging closely with Minister Muir on this and ensuring that we continue to take a collaborative and supportive approach, building on the very close relationships already in place on animal disease control north and south.”

“It is important to note that, because bluetongue is spread by midges, disease spread is much less likely in the winter and early spring months. I am taking firm action now to carry out enhanced and targeted surveillance to find the disease, if it is here.”

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Notes