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Coughlan keeps date with Clonmany 08.08.07

MINISTER for Agriculture Mary Coughlan kept her date with the Clonmany Agricultural Show organisers yesterday despite ongoing meetings with her officials about the foot and mouth outbreak in Britain.
Ms. Coughlan, who attended the annual show in recognition of its 40th anniversary, mingled with the large crowds who gathered in the bright sunshine.
Agriculture Minister Mary Coughlan in the Home Industries tent with Clonmany Agricultural Show joint secretary, Anne Noone. She said the confirmation of a second case of disease in Surrey was "disappointing but not surprising given its proximity to the first case".
"We have to be very vigilant on the basis that this case has not been brought to finality yet. We also have to make sure that this is done in a balanced way so that people are very well informed, but that we don't have an over-the-top reaction," she said.
Clonmany Show organisers told InishowenNews.com they were "delighted" the Minister was able to
keep her appointment at the Pollan Green in light of the country's fears surrounding the latest outbreak in England.
Ms. Coughlan is being kept up-to-date on emerging developments and is continuing to closely monitor the situation.
A complete ban is currently being maintained in line with EU orders, on the importation from Britain of cattle, sheep, pigs and goats, meat and meat products, milk and dairy products and some other animal products.
Ms. Coughlan also issued an order requiring the disinfecting of vehicles used for transporting animals by slaughter houses as well as at ports and harbours.
She said a system of certification would apply in relation to the importation of live animals, meat and meat products, milk and dairy products and other animal products from Northern Ireland.
More photos from Clonmany Show coming soon to the Photo Gallery.
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