The British Veterinary Association and BVA Northern Ireland Branch have welcomed today’s announcement from Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill MLA that pre-export testing for brucellosis in Northern Ireland will be abolished from 1 February 2016.

The latest easing in restrictions follows the EU declaration in October 2015 that Northern Ireland is Officially Brucellosis Free and means that breeding cattle aged over 12 months old will no longer require a pre-export brucellosis test.

Simon Doherty President of BVA Northern Ireland Branch said: “Today’s announcement is another important step forward in ridding Northern Ireland of brucellosis, and ongoing compliance with surveillance measures and biosecurity advice remains vital.

“Brucellosis testing will continue for the five years required, and we encourage farmers to fulfil their obligation to report any late-term abortion and deaths of calves within 24 hours of birth to their local DARD divisionary office. This continued vigilance, based on the precautionary principle, will facilitate appropriate follow-up and help ensure Northern Ireland remains Officially Brucellosis Free.”