Widespread culling is not planned to be the response to the arrival of bluetongue in Northern Ireland, the Stormont Agriculture Minister has said.

Two cases of the disease have been confirmed at a farm close to Bangor, Co Down, as well as a further 44 suspected cases.

A 20km temporary control zone (TCZ) is in place.

Appearing before the Stormont Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee, Andrew Muir emphasised there is no risk to public health or food safety.

The animal disease affects livestock including cattle and sheep, as well as goats, deer and llamas.

It does not affect humans or food safety and is primarily transmitted through midges.

Mr Muir told MLAs on Thursday there are ongoing epidemiological investigations and collaboration with UK and Irish authorities to con

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