Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Maedi Visna (MVV) is a viral disease of sheep, affecting the respiratory system and the mammary gland (udder) of sheep.

The disease is not listed in EU Animal Health Law. Trade in live sheep in the EU takes place without the need for any official attestation regarding MVV, however it is a private industry requirement in several EU member states and the UK for imported breeding sheep to be free of MVV. MVV is not a condition which requires health certification for intra-EU trade in sheepmeat, however it is a condition for trade in sheepmeat to a number of third countries.

MVV is a notifiable disease in Ireland, recognising its low prevalence in order to signal any change in risk to farmers and as a support to international trade. The Department carries out an annual survey of cull ewes to provide evidence of disease freedom and to support trade assurances. There is no statutory control programme or compensation scheme for any affected flocks in Ireland, nor are there any plans for such.

In relation to supports to maintain freedom from MVV, breeding sheep imported into the country are tested for MVV and the owners are advised to cull or return any positive animals.

My officials are currently reflecting on the possible development of an accreditation programme for MVV in the context of a wider sheep health programme to provide further assurance to those pedigree breeders who wish to export their sheep to the UK and Europe.