Blue Tongue Order (Northern Ireland) 2003

Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Order.)

1.  This Order implements Council Directive 2000/75/EC laying down specific provisions for the control and eradication of blue tongue (O.J. No. L327, 22.12.2000, p. 74).

2.  Articles 1 and 2 contain introductory provisions, including definitions of certain terms used in the Order. Article 3 provides that certain activities authorised under the Specified Animal Pathogens Order (Northern Ireland) 1999 are not covered by the Order. Article 4 prohibits unauthorised vaccination against the disease.

3.  Articles 5 to 8 concern measures to be taken when blue tongue is known or suspected to exist on premises. Articles 5 and 6 provide for notification to be given to the Divisional Veterinary Officer and for the isolation of animals when disease is known to exist or is suspected. Article 7 provides for the service of notices by inspectors requiring compliance with certain restrictions. Article 8 sets out the powers of inspectors.

4.  Articles 9 to 11 concern measures to be taken when an outbreak of blue tongue has been confirmed. Article 9 provides for the service of notices. Articles 10 and 11 provide for the declaration of infected areas and the provisions which are to apply in infected areas.

5.  Article 12 sets out the general duties of occupiers, keepers and others under the Order. Article 13 sets out the powers of inspectors when the requirements in notices served by them are not complied with. Article 14 revokes the Specified Diseases (Notification and Movement Restrictions) Order (Northern Ireland) 1997 insofar as it applies to blue tongue.