Strong message tp potential importers

Strong opposition was voiced by members of NFU Cymru"e;s Welsh Council to the practice of importing Bluetongue susceptible animals from areas where the virus is currently circulating and the Union has proposed an immediate voluntary industry-led ban on all imports of such animals.

Speaking during the meeting held at the NFU Cymru headquarters in Builth Wells, Dai Davies, President of NFU Cymru said, "I just cannot understand the rationale of those who are importing stock into Wales at the moment from areas where Bluetongue is rampant. We are not only at risk from the BTv8 strain but also BTv1 which is now moving Northwards from the South of France. This is members of our industry throwing caution to the wind."

Dai Davies continued, "I cannot say enough times how I strongly urge all livestock keepers across Wales to contact their local vet to obtain vaccine now that its use is permitted throughout Wales. This disease has devastated flocks and herds on continental Europe and has the potential to be an economic as well as an animal health disaster for farmers in Wales. We know that the disease did not emerge in England until September last year and with the prospect of good weather in the coming days the conditions could be ideal for midge activity. I would urge livestock keepers to vaccinate as soon as possible.

"My message is a simple one: don"e;t hesitate - vaccinate now!"