Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith issued the warning ahead of the high risk period when midges spread the virus. This period will continue until at least November-December.Mr Smith said the highest risk of introduction of bluetongue is via an imported animal. The industry should not be complacent, he said. Vaccination appears to be working in countries that have bluetongue. But, until the disease is eradicated, there is a risk in importing animals from these affected areas.

The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Brendan Smith TD, is pleased to announce significant progress with the National Aujeszky's Disease Control and Eradication Programme and today launches Phase 3 of the programme.
The objective of this programme is to officially eliminate Aujeszky's Disease from the national pig herd.  This will be of significant benefit to the whole Irish pig sector by recognising the health standard of the national herd and protecting our access to export markets.Speaking today the Minister said "I am delighted with the progress made in this programme to date.