The Ulster Farmers’ Union has welcomed Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill’s announcement that she intends to introduce legislation that will make BVD testing for cattle compulsory.
UFU Animal Health and Welfare Chairman Jonathan Moore said; “The Agriculture Minister’s announcement that she is taking steps to make BVD testing compulsory is very welcome news. Compulsory testing is the only way we will be able to eradicate BVD from our herds and we would like to see this legislation in place before the calving season reaches its peak in March 2014. Having the legislation in place by March will ensure that we continue to make speedy progress in our efforts to eradicate BVD. Many of our trading partners and competitors are already making strides to tackle BVD which is why steady progress here is important so that Northern Ireland’s farmers do not find themselves at a disadvantage.”
