Bluetongue virus restrictions in Wales 'futile' say farming unions

Farmers in Wales are speaking out against the restrictions put in place to prevent the spread of the bluetongue virus to livestock, calling them “futile” and “impractical,” according to farming unions. Starting from 1 July, all cattle, sheep, and goats being transported from England into Wales must test negative for the disease before they can be moved across the border.

Bluetongue has been spreading across parts of England, but has not yet reached Wales this year. The Welsh government’s policy aims to delay the virus’s entry into Wales as much as possible. Although bluetongue does not pose a threat to human health or food safety, it can be fatal to livestock such as sheep and cattle as it is transmitted by midges.

The restrictions have raised concerns among farmers, with Monmouthshire market manager Phil Jones stating that they will have a “devastating” impact. He anticipates a significant drop in business, with potentially 20% being lost if the restrictions remain in place during the breeding sale season in late July, August, and September.

Farmers’ unions have criticized the enforcement of the border restrictions, emphasizing that trade will be severely disrupted. Abi Reader from the National Farmers’ Union highlighted the need for a better rollout of the vaccine and improved communication to farmers. While opposition parties have raised concerns about the economic impact of the restrictions, Rural Affairs Secretary Huw Irranca-Davies MS defended the government’s decision, stating that the goal is to keep bluetongue out of Wales and provide farmers with time to prepare

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