County Fermanagh countryside. Picture: Cliff Donaldson
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has successfully secured financial support for farmers following its demand that DAERA cover the laboratory costs for Bluetongue Virus (BTV) pre-movement testing. The move, announced today by Minister Andrew Muir, follows direct and persistent lobbying from the UFU to protect the cash flow of farm businesses within the Temporary Control Zone (TCZ).
When movement relaxations were first announced in December, the UFU immediately challenged the Department on the costs associated with mandatory testing for high-risk animals. The Union maintained that farmers should not be left to foot the bill for laboratory analysis required to maintain national disease-free status.
UFU deputy president Glenn Cuddy commented, “Today’s announcement is a direct result of the UFU making it clear to the Department that the industry could not be expected to absorb these additional costs. We have been pushing for this support since the restrictions were first implemented, and it is right that the Minister has finally issued a direction to cover these laboratory fees. The UFU Animal Health and Welfare Committee must be credited for the work they put in last year, it is pleasing to the see them rewarded for their lobbying efforts.
“Removing this cost helps ease the strain on those farmers who have been unfairly caught up in the TCZ. While the farmer will still cover the vet’s call-out and sampling fee, having the Department pick up the laboratory bill is a necessary and hard-fought victory that ensures livestock can move without further depleting farm margins.”
The UFU notes that this support is short-term and tied to the “vector low” period. Farmers are encouraged to act now and work with their Private Veterinary Practitioners (PVPs) to move high-risk stock while this financial support is available.
“We will remain at the table to ensure that as we move toward the spring and midge activity increases, the interests of livestock keepers remain the top priority in any future decisions regarding the TCZ,” added Mr. Cuddy.
