Farming: Sheep scab threat prompts NFUS call

Scab is the most contagious disease of sheep and has re-emerged since compulsory dipping was ended in 1992.

"The work done in the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s shows that eradication of this distressing disease is possible," said NFU Scotland livestock policy manager Penny Johnston.

"Compliance with the new order is in the best interests of all Scottish sheep farmers as it will improve the welfare of sheep flocks and strip out the huge annual cost to the Scottish industry of having to continually deal with the problem of sheep scab."

The new order places a legal obligation on sheep farmers to notify their local divisional veterinary officer is they suspect scab in their flocks. Movement restrictions will then apply until the sheep are either treated or slaughtered, or a negative veterinary diagnosis is obtained.

Problems picked up at auction marts or by neighbours will result in local authority enforcement officers imposing movement restrictions and arranging for a veterinary investigation at the owner's expense. Farmers failing to take action will be liable to prosecution.

NFUS has circulated a flow-chart to members detailing the steps they should follow in the event of a suspected outbreak. The union has given its full backing to the new legislation and has welcomed the stronger powers being given to local authorities to force farmers harbouring the disease to treat their animals. "This will hopefully help bring to an end the frustration that many Scottish sheep farmers experience going to the expense of repeatedly having to deal with sheep scab while their less scrupulous neighbours do nothing to deal with the disease," said Johnston.

"Even those flocks with good treatment regimes are continuously fighting against re-infection. The reality is that all sheep farmers are at risk."