BSE case in Scotland '“ no impact on Northern Ireland's Negligible Risk status

Dr Robert Huey was speaking after the Scottish Government has confirmed a case of BSE on a farm in Aberdeenshire.

Precautionary movement restrictions have been put in place at the farm, while further investigations to identify the origin of the disease occur. This is standard procedure for a confirmed case of classical BSE, which does not represent a threat to human health.

Dr Robert Huey said: “While this finding is disappointing, it shows that the robust and rigorous controls on BSE surveillance are effective in identifying issues as early as possible.

“The finding in Scotland does not impact on Northern Ireland’s negligible risk status. We have robust control and surveillance measures in place. We have stringent controls in meat plants and meal companies to ensure meat and bone meal cannot get into feed. These measures ensure that beef from Northern Ireland is a quality product and safe to eat.”

Dr Huey added: “Contaminated feed is a known cause of BSE. Farmers should ensure they comply with TSE legislation and source feed responsibly. They should also maintain good records of feed supplies.

“I am in regular contact with my counterpart in Scotland and will continue to monitor the situation as the ongoing investigation into the cause of this case continues.”