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Foot and Mouth
11/08/2007
Scotland's islands received will be exempt from many of the major restrictions imposed as a result of the foot and mouth outbreak from midnight tonight.
The effect of the change is that agricultural shows, markets, auctions and movement of all animals can resume within each island.
Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles will no longer be in the restricted zone which means transfer between islands can start again.
The ban on gatherings and animal movements within other islands will be lifted. Although linked by a road bridge to the mainland, Skye is classed as an island for this purpose.
However vigilance will be required to ensure that they retain their low risk status by not allowing cattle, sheep, pigs and other live animals susceptible to foot and mouth disease to be brought on to the islands from the mainland.
Restrictions will continue to be reviewed in the light of any adverse developments. Islands are able to send animals directly to abattoirs under the same strict rules as apply on the mainland.
Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said:
"Agriculture is the lifeblood for many of our island communities in Scotland. This relaxation, based on veterinary risk assessment, will help them get back to normal, which is good news for everyone.
"It is essential that we remain vigilant and maintain all other protective measures already in place. Breaches such as bringing in susceptible animals to the islands will prejudice the arrangements that we are now introducing. However, our island communities are now back on the road towards normality."
Scotland's Chief Veterinary Officer Charles Milne added:
"Considerable background work has been undertaken over the last few days to provide a veterinary risk assessment.
"I am confident that it is appropriate to proceed with this relaxation for the islands."
Mr Lochhead is due to visit Keith Show tomorrow (Sunday) from 12 noon.
Routine veterinary and other official farm inspections will recommence on Monday with appropriate bio-security precautions being strictly observed.
Helpline for farmers - 0845 1553366