NFU Scotland is encouraging livestock farmers across Dumfries and Galloway and Ayrshire to come along to a series of local meetings this week, as the organisation steps up its support for farmers affected by Bluetongue Virus 3 (BTV-3).
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The meetings are designed to give farmers the latest information on the developing situation, an opportunity to ask questions directly to experts and a chance to raise concerns about how restrictions are affecting their businesses.
The remaining meetings are:
- Wednesday 26 August, 7pm – Wallets Mart, Castle Douglas
- Thursday 27 August, 7pm – Wigtownshire Rugby Club
- Friday 28 August, 2pm - Craig Wilson, Livestock Auction Mart, Ayr
The meetings are open to all livestock farmers, including those who are not currently NFU Scotland members. There is no need to book.
NFU Scotland is holding the meetings alongside local auctioneers and veterinary practices, bringing together those who can provide practical advice and answer farmers’ questions at a time when there is significant uncertainty around the impact of BTV-3.
The meetings also form part of NFU Scotland’s wider response to the outbreak. The Union has been engaging directly with Government and industry as the situation develops, ensuring concerns raised by farmers locally are being fed into discussions around the response.
With a Temporary Control Zone in place, NFU Scotland has also written directly to the Scottish Government setting out the support it believes is needed for farmers affected by the restrictions, including the financial impact on livestock businesses.
NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon said:
“Bluetongue is creating real uncertainty for livestock farmers across Scotland, and they need clear information, practical support, and a strong voice representing them. That’s exactly what NFU Scotland is here to provide.
Local concerns don’t stop at the meeting room. We take what farmers tell us straight into discussions with Government and industry, making sure decisions reflect real‑world impact and pushing hard for the support members need.
If you’re a livestock farmer with questions about Bluetongue, I’d strongly encourage you to attend one of the remaining meetings. You’ll get up‑to‑date information, the chance to ask questions, and direct access to the people working to support and represent you.”
The meetings offer farmers an opportunity not only to hear the latest BTV-3 information, but to meet their local NFU Scotland representatives and find out how the Union is supporting farmers through the current situation.
NOTES TO EDITOR
- A photograph of Andrew Connon is attached.
- A copy of the letter sent to Scottish Government is available here.
- More than 100 farmers attended each of our two meetings in Dumfries and Galloway, demonstrating strong engagement across the region. Information on the meetings is available here.
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Contact Carly Ross on 07860 642826