FUW demands bluetongue crisis meeting

FARMERS' Union of Wales president Gareth Vaughan has called on the Assembly to set up a meeting of agricultural representatives to consider the Bluetongue threat and the use of vaccines.

Mr Vaughan has written to Rural Affairs Minister Elin Jones pointing out the approach of spring and the expectation that the Bluetongue virus will again start to circulate and spread towards Wales is causing growing concern amongst Welsh farmers.

He said they were concerned not enough vaccine had been secured in Wales to achieve the target vaccination coverage of 80 per cent and there was a need to secure more.

"I fully appreciate that there are complex issues surrounding this matter, such as how limited doses of vaccine can be targeted in a manner that achieves maximum protection for Welsh livestock.

"However, such complications are precisely the reason why such issues need to be discussed regularly in a forum with all stakeholders present," Mr Vaughan said.

"Many farmers have already placed preliminary orders for vaccine with their local veterinary practices, and I believe that an opportunity to monitor demand and awareness may have been missed," he added.

Ends

Out of hours press contacts:

Peter Roberts - Swyddfa/Office: (01970) 820 820

Ffon Symudol/Mobile: 07787 530141

Cartref/Home: (01974) 241656

Menna Davies - Swyddfa/Office: (01970) 820820

Ffon Symudol/Mobile: 07831 539332