Livestock imports into Northern Ireland
Information related to the import of livestock into Northern Ireland.
Important notice for livestock importers
Latest Information as of 4 December 2008
Currently there are restrictions on the importation of FMD and Bluetongue susceptable species into Northern Ireland.The general information given below may be changed at short notice. Importers should contact the Portal Office they intend to use for the latest information. The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development strongly advises that farmers and other importers should only import Bluetongue susceptible species if absolutely necessary. If possible farmers and other importers should not import Blue tongue susceptible species.
Importers are reminded that imported animals must be moved direct to the place of destination as recorded on the export health certificate, immediately after landing from Great Britain.
The Importation of Animals Order (Northern Ireland) 1986 (as amended), sets out these requirements:
In accordance with article 2 of the Order that "place of destination," means the place to which the animals are consigned immediately following importation and which is recorded on the health certificate accompanying the animals".
It also states in accordance with article 8 of the Order that after an imported animal has been landed at the port of landing it shall be the duty of the person in charge of the livestock to ensure that:
- it is moved directly to the place of destination or as directed by a veterinary inspector;
- it does not, while at a landing place, or during the journey to the place of destination come into contact with any other animal; and
- the vehicle used for the carriage of the animal to the place of destination is one from which there will be no leakage of liquid matter, or escape of waste fodder, animal dung or other excreta.
All importers should note that the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) will take action to ensure compliance with all of the above legislation and any conditions as set out in the import licence.