MP urges vigilance as Bluetongue disease is confirmed in NI cattle

Carla Lockhart MP • December 1, 2025

DUP Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, is urging farmers across Northern Ireland to remain vigilant, following confirmation that Bluetongue virus (BTV) has been detected in two cows originating from a herd in Bangor, County Down.

The MP said: “On Sunday evening I spoke to NI’s chief veterinary officer, Brian Dooher, who has assured me that DAERA staff have been working intensively over the weekend to assess and manage the situation. Further investigations are ongoing in the locality and Mr Dooher has promised to keep me fully updated as the situation unfolds.

“Bluetongue is a serious airborne disease affecting cattle, sheep, goats and camelids, such as alpacas and lamas. It is spread by biting midges that have been infected by the virus. It can also be transferred through infected germplasm.

“News that BTV has been confirmed in Northern Ireland is alarming, but I am appealing to farmers, especially those located within the 20km control zone to follow the regulations and report any concerns immediately, either to their private veterinary practice, divisional veterinary office, or contact the DAERA Helpline: 0300 200 7840.”

“Co-operation and vigilance, is vital at this stage,” stressed Ms Lockhart. “Robust control measures have been implemented, including a ban on the export of live animals from Northern Ireland.

“As extensive testing progresses, more information will become available in the coming days. For now, compliance to the guidance and prompt reporting are key.”

The 20km temporary control zone has been in place since 9.00pm on Saturday evening, 29^th November. Farmers residing within the control zone are prohibited from moving animals and Saintfield Livestock Mart has been closed. Special licences must be obtained to move animals direct to slaughter.

Bluetongue disease poses no risk to human health and does not affect food safety.

The Upper Bann MP added: “DAERA officials have been preparing for a possible incursion of Bluetongue for some time. Minister Muir’s department has been actively conducting surveillance sampling in abattoirs. They have also been using the Met Office’s Hazard Manager maps, while midge traps are in operation at seven inland and coastal sites across Northern Ireland.”

The disease has been prevalent in Netherlands since September 2023, and has been spreading across Europe and GB. There have been 228 confirmed cases in England (213) and Wales (15) since July 2025, with the latest confirmed in Derbyshire last Friday.

The MP added: ”There has been mounting public speculation surrounding next week’s RUAS Winter Fair. Mr Dooher indicated that the event is expected to proceed, as the Eikon exhibition centre is outside the control zone. However, this position will remain under review and will be dependent on the outcome of further test results.

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