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UFU president William Irvine said the union is 'appalled' by the actions of some within the farming community

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"