The Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) have called on Minister Heydon and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) to add the Blue Tongue Virus Vaccination to the Sheep Welfare Scheme and the Beef Welfare Scheme
Speaking on this, the national vice president, John Joe Fitzgerald, stressed “the growing concern around the spread of the Blue Tongue virus and the need for clarity around proposed vaccines, which are quite costly.”
In relation to covering the cost, the INHFA, as Fitzgerald stated, are “calling on the Minister and his Department to include the Blue Tongue Virus (BTV) vaccination as an additional eligible measure under both the Sheep Welfare Scheme and the Beef Welfare Scheme.” These schemes have, he added, “a vaccination option, so amending the schemes to include a BTV vaccination is very achievable.”
The INHFA vice President pointed to “the rapidly changing disease risk, combined with the early arrival of spring”, and stressed the need “for swift action from DAFM to protect farmers, livestock, and the wider sector.”
Fitzgerald also stated that “the inclusion of the BTV vaccination must be paired with full financial support, emphasising that:
- Funding must cover the cost of the vaccine itself
- Funding must also cover the associated labour costs for administering the vaccine”
He highlighted that “without immediate approval and financial provision, farmers cannot make informed decisions or prepare adequately should the threat level increase in the coming weeks.”
“With spring already upon us, farmers need clarity and support now—not later,” Fitzgerald said. “Including the Blue Tongue Virus vaccination in both welfare schemes is a practical, essential step. But it must come with proper funding to ensure farmers are not left carrying the burden of disease prevention alone.”
The INHFA is urging DAFM to act without delay so that farmers can plan and respond effectively if the risk of BlueTongue Virus escalates.