Kilkenny IFA calls discovery of Blue Tongue on Derry farm ‘very disappointing’

Kilkenny IFA reaction

Kilkenny representatives of the Irish Farmers’ Association have described the confirmation of bluetongue in cattle on a County Down farm as “very disappointing” for farmers across the island. They stress that the news has unsettled local producers who had hoped the disease would remain outside Ireland.

Details of the outbreak

The disease has been detected in two cows on a farm in County Down, prompting the creation of a 20km temporary control zone around the holding. Movement of susceptible livestock in and out of this zone is subject to strict controls designed to limit any further spread.

Concerns for farmers

Local IFA members say farmers have worked hard over recent years to keep bluetongue out of the country, following earlier cases in Britain and mainland Europe. They fear that any wider spread could damage confidence, increase compliance costs, and disrupt normal trading patterns for cattle and other susceptible animals.

Call for vigilance

Kilkenny IFA is urging farmers to remain alert for possible signs of bluetongue in their own herds and flocks. They emphasise the importance of promptly contacting a vet or the relevant authorities if any suspicious symptoms are seen so that disease control measures can be activated quickly.

“The discovery of bluetongue in cattle on a farm in Co Down is very disappointing for farmers who have done everything possible to keep the disease away.”

Author’s summary

The Kilkenny IFA condemns the bluetongue case in Co Down as a serious setback, warning that tighter controls and farmer vigilance are now vital to protect trade and animal health across the island.

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KCLR 96FM KCLR 96FM — 2025-12-01

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