UFU president William Irvine and dairy farmer from County Armagh said: "DAERA's review of NI's TB strategy is a step too far. There is extremely limited focus on the most critical issue – the need for an effective eradication programme that addresses all sources of infection"
The National Sheep Association (NSA) said it held a ‘constructive’ meeting with Minister Andrew Muir and key officials from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA)
"This was a shocking case of animal neglect and animal suffering."
Sean Fitzpatrick, of the Northern Ireland Agricultural Producers' Association, said: "How can anyone expect our sheep farmers to maintain this when their income, which needs to support not only a business but a home, is getting significantly cut?"
‘XI' prefix tags can be used on newborn cattle, sheep, and goats from 30 June 2025
"This detection is a clear reminder of the threat of the disease"
"Agriculture has a significant role economically, socially, culturally and environmentally"