The Government has called for more rigorous controls to be taken in Britain to bring the foot and mouth outbreak there under control. At this morning's meeting of the government's Task Force on foot and mouth, chaired by the Taoiseach, concern was expressed over the continuing escalation of the situation in the UK. The meeting also praised the co-operation of the public in reducing the risk of foot and mouth.
The Minister of State at the Department of Marine and Natural Resources has described the British response to Foot and Mouth as a scandal. Hugh Byrne said that Britain is the leper of Europe and should be treated accordingly until their actions confirm that they are acting responsibly. The Minister said that the whole base of Ireland's strong agri-business sector was being severely threatened by the irresponsibility of British authorities and urged the European authorities to place stringent sanctions upon Britain.
The Midlands farmer who imported sheep to the Republic which are linked to foot and mouth is now said to be seeking immunity from prosecution for himself here. John Walsh, who is now in the UK, is understood to have made the request to British police. However, the Department of Agriculture here says that if Mr Walsh has any further relevant information he should give it to the authorities or the Department, but the question of immunity is a matter for the DPP. The position remains that no case of FMD has arisen in the State. Current restrictions on around 700 herds and flocks in this country are essentially precautionary.
