Gildernew updates trade issue

Farming Minister Michelle Gildernew has provided an update on actions her Department have taken in relation to the Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak in England.

The Minister outlined progress in Brussels made today in relation to trade.

The Minister said :"I am addressing urgently the problems which some food businesses are experiencing in getting their exports accepted. My officials finalised with the industry this morning the arrangements for meeting the certification requirements set by the EU and these are now in place. Industry interests were keen to differentiate us from Britain and we have agreed forms which have a stronger DARD identity.

"Our Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO), Bert Houston,was in Brussels today for the meeting of the Standing Committee on Food Chain and Animal Health (SCoFCAH). He stressed to EU veterinary colleagues our distinct position and sought to ensure that our exemption from the export ban was confirmed. He also pressed for further relaxation of the certification requirements..

The decision by SCoFCAH has now confirmed our distinct status and the Commission has agreed that we can differentiate ourselves from Britain in our export documentation. This is very welcome and allows our export trade to continue.

The collective veterinary judgement is that it is too early to consider any immediate change to certification requirements, but we will have the opportunity to reopen this at the next meeting scheduled in a fortnight's time. We will prepare the ground for this. Some of the detailed provisions have changed but they do not present a difficulty.

"To assist us in clearing problems with other countries, Defra will be contacting all EU Member State CVOs to explain the position and set up contacts to assist in resolving any problems.

"Dealing with all the implications of the Foot and Mouth Disease in Britain is not something that can be done in one go - yesterday's emerging trade problems demonstrates that point. I am determined to keep our exports moving and will be doing everything in my power to ensure that the benefits of the special status which we have secured are fully realised."

The Minsiter also visited Fermanagh showgrounds today. She said : "The County Fermanagh Farming Society Annual Show has a long tradition. It was founded in 1835 and it is great to see it going ahead as normal today.

Farming Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, visited the Fermanagh Agriculture Show today and relayed the message that the countryside here is open to visitors and that livestock are moving despite the foot and mouth outbreak in Britain.

"I am here to lend my support to the rural community, to meet directly with them and hear at first hand their views about the actions we are taking in response to the Foot and Mouth outbreak in England.

"I am absolutely delighted to see all the livestock on view at the show. The stock was of an excellent quality and standard. They are an essential part of the event and they are tangible proof that our speedy action to defend against the disease crossing from Britain has enabled us to avoid restrictions on animal movements."