Ulster Unionist Agriculture Spokesperson and Chair of the Stormont AERA committee has responded to the emergence of a new suspected Bluetongue case on a farm near Greyabbey in Co Down.

Robbie Butler MLA said,

“In my previous statement, I made clear that the confirmation of BTV-3 in the first two cases and the identification of a further 44 suspected infections would be a hammer blow for farmers. The news emerging tonight of a potential additional outbreak in Greyabbey reinforces the scale and urgency of the challenge we now face.

“It is more important than ever that DAERA offers not just guidance, but absolute cooperation, coordination and practical support to every farm and every community affected. This must be matched by full engagement from all stakeholders across the agriculture and agri-food sector. A united, transparent and proactive response will be essential to containing risk and preventing further spread.

“Communication, vigilance and strict adherence to biosecurity protocols remain paramount. Farmers have been battling relentless pressures from Avian Flu to the unresolved Bovine TB crisis and the development of Bluetongue as an additional threat risks pushing many to the edge. They cannot and must not be left to face this alone.

“I am again urging any farmer who feels uncertain, overwhelmed or directly impacted to contact Rural Support or another trusted wellbeing organisation. Protecting mental health and ensuring no one feels isolated during this difficult period must remain a core priority.

“Our farming community has shown exceptional resilience through repeated crises. It is now incumbent on DAERA, industry leaders and all involved in the agri-food supply chain to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them, offering clear leadership, total cooperation and every possible resource as we confront this latest challenge.”