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UFU president William Irvine said the union is 'appalled' by the actions of some within the farming community

UFU president William Irvine said there was extremely limited focus on the most critical issue – the need for an effective eradication programme addressing all sources of infection

The National Sheep Association (NSA) said it held a ‘constructive’ meeting with Minister Andrew Muir and key officials from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA)

"This was a shocking case of animal neglect and animal suffering."

Sean Fitzpatrick, of the Northern Ireland Agricultural Producers' Association, said: "How can anyone expect our sheep farmers to maintain this when their income, which needs to support not only a business but a home, is getting significantly cut?"

‘XI' prefix tags can be used on newborn cattle, sheep, and goats from 30 June 2025

"This detection is a clear reminder of the threat of the disease"

"Agriculture has a significant role economically, socially, culturally and environmentally"