Foot-and-mouth movement restrictions eased in the North
Movement restrictions between the North and Scotland imposed following the foot-and-mouth outbreaks were today relaxed.
Stormont Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew agreed following a fresh veterinary risk assessment that the one-way movement of breeding and production animals from Northern Ireland may take place to single holdings in Scotland.
However, a ban remains on the importation of animals from Great Britain.
The Department insisted today any consignment heading to Scotland must be accompanied by a DARD export health certificate which is available from divisional veterinary offices.
All consignments will also have to be accompanied by a general import licence and an Internal Movement Licence issued by the Scottish Government.
Once animals have been off-loaded at the holding, the vehicle must be treated before it leaves the premises with the loading ramp for livestock being cleansed and disinfected.
In addition, driver footwells, access steps to the vehicle, pedals and mats will also be cleansed and disinfected before any return journey is undertaken.
If on their return to Northern Ireland the vehicles are judged to be unclean in the opinion of a Department of Agriculture Portal Inspector they will be sent back to Scotland, even if a declaration of disinfection has been made.
The Department also warned if a declaration of disinfection has not been appropriately made in the haulier records, the vehicle will be sent back.
Officials also reminded farmers and the rural community to remain vigilant, check their stock daily, and maintain strong bio-security.
“Any suspicion of disease must be reported immediately to your private vet or local divisional veterinary office,” the Department said.
“The Department continues to liaise closely with Defra, other devolved administrations and with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in Dublin to monitor the situation.”
