26 May 2008

2 minute read

Europe

In his letter, Dai Davies appeals to his fellow farmers in the newly designated PZ to vaccinate susceptible stock such as sheep and cattle as soon as possible. Dai Davies said, “Whilst I appreciate it is an added cost at a time when the livestock sectors can ill-afford it, I regard it as a small price to pay for the protection and insurance against Btv8 it will provide us as individual farmers. The alternative is unthinkable. I don’t think we can afford not to vaccinate.”

Mr Davies continues, “The only way to protect our stock, our livelihoods and our industry against bluetongue is to vaccinate as soon as we are permitted to do so and as soon as vaccine is available and that is why I am appealing to you directly to do so.”

In his letter, Mr Davies warns, “There is no Government compensation for any losses sustained due to blue tongue and our fate is largely in our own hands as far as this disease is concerned.”

Mr Davies also draws attention to the fact that, provided stock has been vaccinated 60 days before the date of movement, the current constraints on movement from the restricted area will be lifted, thus freeing up movements for management purposes and for trade. Movement to unrestricted areas or for export will require veterinary certification and a signed declaration that the animals have been vaccinated will need to accompany the animal.

A detailed question and answer briefing is available for members to view on the NFU Cymru website www.nfu-cymru.org.uk or alternatively members may obtain paper copies from their local group secretary office. Useful information is also contained on the Welsh Assembly Government website www.wales.gov.uk or the Defra website www.defra.gov.uk

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