A ban on routine off-premise movements of sheep, cattle, goats and pigs is still in place in the Islands as a result of the current Foot and Mouth situation.

Contract shearing and multiple pick-up wool collections are also banned. Although there have been attempts made to obtain a relaxation for intra-island movements nothing has changed at the present time and the nationwide movement ban still applies in the islands.

It is now possible, however, to move stock direct to an approved abattoir provided that the required bio-security requirements are followed. Stornoway Abattoir has been approved and is now accepting bookings.

Chairman of Enviornment and Protective Services, Norman A Macdonald, said:
The lifting of the ban on movement of stock for slaughter is to be welcomed but I would stress that the general ban on animal movements still applies. I would urge stockholders to follow the regulations in the ongoing effort to overcome this outbreak”.  

For further information contact the Comhairle’s Animal Health Officer on 01851 870807