The EU Commission decided today that live animals and meat products can be exported from outside of the Surveillance Zone in Surrey from Saturday 25 August to the rest of the European Union. Alongside this resumption of exports, the GB-wide movement ban on live animals will be lifted from midnight tonight outside of the Surveillance Zone in Surrey.
The Minister said: “This is further good news for local industry and follows the recent restoration of trade with the US from here, as well as the lifting of the ban on the movement of animals from here to Britain for direct slaughter. Whilst trade remains restricted in Surrey, today’s decision is a significant step forward and reopens the important live animal export market for our local industry.”
Outlining revised arrangements for local industry, the Minister said: “Today’s decision brings Britain into line with our additional veterinary supervision and certification requirements which continue to apply here. This means that we can now resume live exports of breeding and production animals from here to England and Scotland. The Welsh position remains under review.
“I would remind exporters that three days’ notice should continue to be given to local Divisional Veterinary Offices before any animal exports to Britain or the EU take place.”
Ms Gildernew explained that as a precautionary measure imports into Britain will need to remain on the premises they are moved to for 20 days before being moved again. The only exception to this will be movements within the same holding of less than 8km.
In conclusion, the Minister said: “I would like to thank Executive colleagues and our industry partners for their ongoing support in helping to overcome local issues. Our decisive actions and partnership approach have been vital in the success of securing today’s decision.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- All media queries to DARD Press Office on 02890524619.
- Out of hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
- Further information on today’s decision is also available from the GB Agriculture Department’s websites at www.defra.gov.uk; www.scotland.gov.uk; www.countryside.wales.gov.uk ; www.dardni.gov.uk
