Bluetongue: limited departmental support for testing in Temporary Control Zone

The agriculture minister has said the department will meet laboratory costs for some bluetongue tests in the County Down Temporary Control Zone for a limited time, while farmers remain responsible for required test fees and high‑risk animals must still be tested before moving out.

Bluetongue virus was detected at four sites in County Down last year and a Temporary Control Zone remains in place. Some restrictions in the zone have been eased. Certain high-risk animals still require testing before they can be moved out of the area. The agriculture minister has announced the department will cover associated laboratory costs for a limited period, while farmers will continue to pay for required tests. Known facts: - Bluetongue was detected at four sites in County Down last year. - A Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) remains in place. - Some restrictions in the TCZ have been eased, but high-risk animals must still be tested before moving out. - The agriculture minister announced the department will meet associated laboratory costs for a limited time; farmers remain responsible for required test fees. Summary: The departmental contribution will reduce laboratory bills for some farmers during the limited period and follows easing of some TCZ restrictions, while testing requirements for high-risk animals remain in effect. Undetermined at this time.