The Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs has announced Quarantine Units will come into force in Wales on 12 June 2017.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The introduction of Quarantine Units (QU) will enable keepers to choose between using an approved QU to manage livestock movements or continuing to adhere to the Six Day Standstill (6DSS) on their whole holding. The new arrangements simplify the standstill regime and allow greater flexibility for livestock keepers, while maintaining movement control to prevent the spread of disease.
Lesley Griffiths said:
“I am pleased to announce Quarantine Units will come into force on 12 June. Each individual livestock keeper will now have more flexibility and be able to decide which approach - QUs or Six Day Standstill best meets their requirements. Ahead of their implementation, I would advise livestock owners to familiarise themselves with the Quarantine Units operational rules and requirements.
The Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Christianne Glossop added:
“The alternative arrangements to the Six Day Standstill were developed at the request of, and in close collaboration with the industry. They have been worked through systematically, and collaboratively, with the support of Independent Veterinary Risk Assessments. I am confident this additional flexibility addresses and resolves issues raised by the industry around the Six Day Standstill whilst not increasing the risk of disease spread”.
The cost of certification for 18 months, including VAT, is £172.80 for one QU or £244.80 for two.