Bluetongue zone change welcomed

CHANGES to control measures to counter the spread of Bluetongue disease have been broadly welcomed.

- STAFF REPORTER

Huw Irranca-Davies, deputy first minister with responsibility for climate change and rural affairs, announced a Wales Restricted Zone (RZ) for Bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) from this week.

The Welsh Government says its control policy and updates has delayed Bluetongue incursion from the England Restricted Zone until the time of year when the impact and spread of the disease is limited.

It has also provided farmers with time to vaccinate their livestock and prepare for the disease in Wales.

Eleven cases of BTV-3 have been confirmed in Wales, four in Powys and seven in the control zone in Monmouthshire.

It is likely the number of Bluetongue cases will increase and further controls may need to be introduced.

Mr Irranca-Davies said: "I appreciate the restrictions on livestock movements and the introduction of the Temporary Control Zone (TCZ), have been disruptive for livestock keepers and wider industry.