If covering the DAERA announcement of a scheme targeting the removal of BVD infected animals, please consider the comment below from UFU deputy president, Victor Chestnutt.
"We are pleased DAERA took on board our views in ensuring funding from the EU Exceptional Adjustment Aid scheme benefits all livestock sectors. In September we urged DAERA to use the funding strategically to deliver maximum benefit,” said Mr Chestnutt. “Our members wanted to see the funding used to support animal health measures, and in a way that produced genuine, lasting benefits to the industry,” he said.
The UFU says that while the funding available is limited, this is an opportunity to help farmers tackle a key animal health issue. “This financial incentive will be welcomed by farmers who for years have been plagued with BVD,” added Mr Chestnutt. “Over the last four years, the UFU has called for aid to encourage farmers to remove persistently infected (PI) animals quickly to eliminate BVD from Northern Ireland. With this financial incentive, those reluctant to give up PI animals have lost another reason for retaining them."
The UFU says anyone that has a BVD positive calf should avail of this scheme to help Northern Ireland reach national BVD free status sooner, which will bring benefits for the entire livestock industry. Farmers can submit claims from wednesday 8th February 2017.
