Torridge councillors urged to support farmers during bluetongue outbreak

TORRIDGE District Councillors will be asked at the next full council meeting to show their support for farmers in the area.

Cllr Nigel Kenneally, member for Milton and Tamarside, has put forward a notice of motion asking the council to put forward its concerns to DEFRA about the management of the bluetongue virus outbreak.

If approved, it will also see a £10,000 grant to the Farming Community Network to assist its work in supporting the farming community.

Cllr Kenneally said: “As a district councillor representing Milton and Tamarside, I have seen first-hand how important farming is to our communities and how difficult the last year has been for many of our farmers.

“Farmers across Torridge have had to deal with a particularly challenging year, with the effects of drought putting additional pressure on farms, livestock and incomes, followed by the continuing threat of Bluetongue affecting sheep and cattle. Behind the statistics are hardworking farming families facing real financial pressure and uncertainty about the future.

“That is why I believe this Notice of Motion is so important. We need to make sure the Government understands what farmers in Torridge are facing and provides meaningful support.

“I am calling on DEFRA to increase testing capacity and speed up the processing and return of results, as well as expediting the procurement of additional vaccines. Farmers need action and certainty.

“I also want to recognise the fantastic work of the Farming Community Network. Their practical and emotional support can make a real difference to farmers and farming families during incredibly difficult times.

“That is why the motion proposes a one-off £10,000 grant to FCN, specifically to support farmers and farming families in the Torridge District Council area.

“Our farmers are an essential part of Torridge. At a time when they need support, I believe we should stand with them.”

Cllr Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin thanked Cllr Kenneally for his support and added: “As both a farmer and Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, I know first-hand just how difficult and stressful the bluetongue outbreak has been here. It has been one of the most difficult and challenging periods I have ever experienced, both as a farmer and a councillor.

“Our livestock farmers have faced drought alongside the impact of bluetongue, with large numbers of sick and dying animals to care for, significant additional costs and huge uncertainty. They have also been let down and frustrated by a lack of communication and action from Defra. Defra now needs to act urgently.

“Farmers need proper financial and practical support, and access to vaccines. But we also need a long-term strategy to prevent this ever happening again.

“The Government must learn the lessons from this outbreak and act now to ensure we are properly prepared for next spring. I hope councillors will support Cllr Kenneally’s motion, including the proposed £10,000 grant to the Farming Community Network.

“FCN provides vital support to farmers and their families, and this funding will make a real difference when our farming community needs it most.”