The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has been called on to add vaccination for bluetongue virus (BTV) as an action under two key livestock schemes.

The Irish Natura and Hill Farmers' Association (INHFA) has said it wants to see vaccination for bluetongue added to the National Beef Welfare Scheme (NBWS) and the National Sheep Welfare Scheme (NSWS).

INHFA national vice-president John Joe Fitzgerald highlighted "the growing concern around the spread of the bluetongue virus".

He said there is a "need for clarity" around proposed vaccines, which are "quite costly".

"[We are] calling on the minister [for agriculture Martin Heydon] and his department to include the bluetongue virus vaccination as an additional eligible measures under both the Sheep Welfare Scheme and the Beef Welfare Scheme," Fitzgerald said.

"These schemes have a vaccination option so amending the schemes to include a BTV vaccination is very achievable," he added.

The INHFA vice-president highlighted the "rapidly changing disease risk, combined with the arrival of spring", and called for "swift action from [the department] to protect farmers, livestock and the wider sector".

Fitzgerald called for the inclusion of bluetongue vaccination under these two livestock schemes to be paired with full financial support.

He said that funding must cover the cost of the vaccine itself, and must also cover the associated labour costs for administering the vaccine.

"Without immediate approval and financial provision, farmers cannot make informed decisions or prepare adequately should the threat level increase in the coming weeks," he warned.

Fitzgerald added: "With spring already upon us, farmers need clarity and support now, not later. Including the bluetongue virus vaccine in both welfare schemes is a practical, essential step.

He said that the INHFA is urging the department to "act without delay" so that farmers can plan and respond effectively if the risk of bluetongue virus escalates.