UK foot and mouth outbreak – Industry representative satisfied with measures taken in Jersey

13 August 2007

10 August 2007

Jersey’s foot and mouth working group today met with Derrick Frigot, President of the Royal Jersey Agricultural & Horticultural Society to verify that the local farming industry are happy with the approach being taken by the States of Jersey in response to the UK outbreak. Mr Frigot said “I am fully satisfied with the measures that have been put in place by the Jersey authorities and I feel they are entirely appropriate for the current low level of risk. I feel confident, however, that if the situation should escalate in the UK, the Island is in a position to act very quickly”.

Jersey authorities are continuing to carefully monitor the situation and are keeping fully abreast of the changing situation in the UK. All meat and dairy products being imported to Jersey from England, Scotland and Wales are being checked for correct certification by staff from Health Protection. A small amount of meat has been confiscated at Jersey Harbours and will be returned to the UK as it did not comply with the required certification standards. The public are reminded that no meat or dairy products can be brought to the Island following a visit to the UK

Horse owners should be aware of an additional measure regarding the transportation of horses to the island. Owners are required to obtain a Health Certificate from their local DEFRA animal health office, before leaving the UK.

States Veterinary Officer, Linda Lowseck is reminding all farmers and owners of susceptible animals that they must take responsibility for bio-security on their premises and follow the guidelines issued earlier this week. With these and other continuing measures in place, the public can rest assured that the level of risk of foot and mouth to the Island continues to be very low.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. For more information contact Paul Nichols, Chief Executive, Planning and Environment on 448416 or Freddie Cohen on 07797 714550.
2. The products affected by the restrictions include:
1. Meat and meat preparations
2. Milk and milk products
3. Hides and skins
4. Blood
5. Lard and fats
6. Wool and hair
7. Petfood
8. Animal casings
3. Susceptible animals are sheep, pigs, cattle, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas.
4. Further information and frequently asked questions can be found on www.gov.je