Over 60 imported sheep have been euthanised to prevent the spread of the disease Bluetongue in Northern Ireland. The sheep believed to be ewe hoggs were smuggled into the country on a ferry from Scotland. Under the ongoing Bluetongue movement restrictions no livestock are permitted to travel from GB to Northern Ireland in bid to slow the spread of the virus.

Local reports state that the animals were believed to have been hidden within a load of hay bales and were discovered when Northern Irish port officials heard bleating from the vehicle.

Officials then confiscated the animals and euthanised the 65 sheep at the dock. This is thought to be the largest illegal consignment of livestock to have been discovered in an Irish port following Bluetongue restrictions.

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A Spokesperson for DAERA said: “On Friday the 15 November 2024, 65 sheep were discovered in a Northern Ireland port after being illegally imported from Great Britain (GB). The importation of livestock from GB to Northern Ireland is currently not allowed due to the ongoing Bluetongue outbreak in GB. The animals in question were euthanised due to the risk of introduction of Bluetongue into NI. DAERA are investigating possible criminal offences arising from this incident.

“No other consignments of cattle or sheep been intercepted at local ports since the ban on livestock movements into NI was introduced

“By disregarding importation requirements individuals risk compromising Northern Ireland’s animal health status, with significant impacts for animal welfare, NI farmers and the wider agricultural sector.”