Longford MEP teams up with Dutch MEP to press for review of Bluetongue rules

Longford MEP Ciaran Mullooly has teamed up with Netherlands MEP Dr Jessika van Leeuwen to successfully press the European Commission to review the practical impact of its Bluetongue regulations restricting the movement of livestock.

The intervention followed serious concerns about the impact of the proposed rules on farmers, livestock exporters and animal transport, particularly for Ireland as a major exporter of livestock to mainland European markets.

Following discussions with Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi, the Commission has confirmed that the new rules will apply from November 1 next.

There is also a commitment to facilitate bilateral agreements between Member States, including practical arrangements involving PCR testing and insecticide treatment to reduce unnecessary barriers to animal movements.

“This is a very welcome development for Ireland. We are a major exporter of livestock to mainland Europe and we must have practical access to the countries that want to buy Irish animals,” Mr Mullooly said.

“The revised approach should assist the continued export of Irish livestock while maintaining the necessary animal-health protections. As an island Member State, Ireland cannot afford unnecessary or disproportionate barriers to our access to the Single Market.”

Mr Mullooly said he will now seek confirmation that the Irish authorities are engaging with relevant destination and transit Member States to make full use of the flexibilities available.