During a visit to the 39^th RUAS Winter Fair near Lisburn, the Upper Bann MP spoke to farmers affected by the Bluetongue movement restrictions. “Farmers are frustrated, and I don’t blame them. They have found themselves in an unpredictable situation through no fault of their own.

“I’ve been inundated with reports that the restrictions are putting farms under unbearable financial pressure, with many also disappointed at the lack of transparency and information coming from DAERA. Farmers deserve more than email and a text message, especially when their livelihoods are at risk.

“At times like this, Minister Muir’s department should be stepping up, providing farmers with support, advice and regular updates. Farmers feel anxious, isolated and left in limbo, as DAERA has given no clear guidance or time frame on the likely duration of the Bluetongue ‘lockdown’.”

There was welcome news this week with the re-opening of GB export markets for NI cattle and sheep. The MP said: “Unfortunately, this means nothing to those living within the two 20km control zone areas. They are now allowed to move animals on to their property, but the only option for moving livestock off-farm is direct to slaughter – both movements require an approved license.

“In many cases, fat lambs and dropped calves are ready for market, but can’t be sold, and there are additional costs for feed and bedding, which is putting farmers under severe financial pressure.

 “Meanwhile, across the country, livestock prices have dropped and milk prices are falling significantly.”

Carla Lockhart said: “There are a large number of pedigree dairy herds impacted by the Bluetongue restrictions. The majority of these herds sell surplus fresh calved heifers and cows, but not being able to trade is leaving them severely out of pocket. With milk prices tumbling, dairy cow sales can help bolster cash flow.”

 “I am urging DAERA to reach out to farmers, to provide them with support, information and a clear timeline for lifting the TCZ restrictions. Mitigation measures are crucial. Everything in the department’s ‘tool box’, including increased and efficient testing, and additional surveillance, must be implemented to ensure the regulations can be relaxed as soon as possible.”

The MP congratulated the RUAS on another successful event. She said: “Traditionally, the one-day show is an annual pre-Christmas celebration, and a welcome day out for those involved in the province’s dairy industry. This year’s event was no exception with a good turnout of visitors and a strong trade presence.

“However, there was disappointment that this year’s multi-breed cattle classes were cancelled in the wake of the Bluetongue incursion in County Down.

“This time last year, planning restrictions, inheritance tax proposals and bovine TB were a raw topic of conversation, and unfortunately that hasn’t changed. Over the last twelve months, the Nutrient Action Programme (NAP), and now Bluetongue, has left farmers dismayed and falling further into the depths of despair.



“Farmers are recognised for their resilience, but there is no doubt they are preparing for a challenging number of months as we enter a New Year,” concluded Carla Lockhart MP.