The Manx National Farmers Union has reassured farmers and trading partners that livestock trade can continue safely amid a confirmed blue tongue case on island.
The Union acknowledges the difficult situation facing the affected farm and offers its full support at this time.
However, the MNFU stresses that maintaining confidence in trade and protecting the wider agricultural sector is now a key priority.
Bluetongue
Bluetongue has been present in the UK for a number of years and was recently confirmed in an isolated case in Northern Ireland.
The disease is spread by infected midges and not through direct animal-to-animal contact, a factor which is important when considering trade risk.
Strict controls on livestock imports from the UK to the Isle of Man have been in place since Bluetongue was first detected there more than two years ago, in order to preserve the island’s BTV-free status for as long as possible.
While these restrictions have placed pressures on island farmers and supply chains, the MNFU notes that the focus must now be on protecting livestock health while enabling trade to continue with confidence.
MNFU Statement
The full statement from the MNFU is as follows:
“The MNFU are aware that a case of Bluetongue has been confirmed on the Isle of Man. We offer our support to the farm that will be experiencing a difficult time right now.
Bluetongue has been present in the UK for some time and was recently confirmed in an isolated case in Northern Ireland. It is important to clarify that Bluetongue is spread by infected midges and not from animal to animal. Strict controls on imports to the Isle of Man from the UK have been in place since the first cases were identified over two years ago, in order to keep the Islands BTV-free status for as long as possible. Though this restriction has presented its own difficulties for the farming industry on the Isle of Man, the priority now is to maintain the health and welfare of the livestock on Island and enable trade to continue safely. DEFA have confirmed that export trade can continue with the UK.
Despite the widespread cases of Bluetongue in the UK, it remains a notifiable disease, and we ask that farms detecting clinical signs report them to the Animal Health Team at DEFA. Similarly speak to the Department or your vet for advice. Vaccinations are now approved for use on Island which is currently a voluntary programme. We would like to thank the Chief Government Vet, Dr Amy Beckett, the Animal Health Team and the Agricultural Directorate at DEFA for their efforts to support the industry at this time.“
