BLUETONGUE PRECAUTION - STRANRAER CATTLE MUST BE REMOVED

Published on Thu 9th Apr 2009

Jim Hume, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, has reacted to the news that the illegal movement of cattle from the Netherlands to the Republic of Ireland has left two Dutch animals stranded at Stranraer.

Jim Hume said:

"We cannot afford to take any risks with the bluetongue virus. That is why we need urgent confirmation from the Scottish Government that these cattle will be returned to Holland.

"So far, Scottish farmers have been fortunate and bluetongue has not yet infected livestock in this country.

"Other European countries have not been so lucky and this breach of movement regulations demonstrates exactly why EU rules need to be tightened up and rigorously followed by each member state to prevent infected animals being brought into Scotland.

"Scottish Ministers need to ensure that all steps necessary are taken to minimise any potential risk to our livestock sector. This not only means that a tightening up of existing rules, but also that measures are in place to ensure that the rules are adhered to with proper action taken against those who flout them."

ENDS