ICSA ‘appalled’ by PTSB loan sale

therefore will spread the virus.

Early lambing flocks appear to be at greater risk than flocks lambing mid-season however farmers with flocks lambing over the next few weeks should be aware of the possibility of cases occurring.

For mid-season lambing flocks, where mating took place from October to mid-November, the risk period for infection by the midge is from early November to late January. Midges would require mild conditions in this period to be airborne and would also need to carry the virus.

As mentioned, the main clinical signs of SBV are the birth of lambs which have deformed and fused limbs and spine and reduced development of parts of the brain. As with all animal health concerns farmers should consult their veterinary practitioner if they have suspicions or concerns of SBV cases around lambing time. ICSA rural development chairman Seamus Sherlock has said he is appalled at the decision by Permanent TSB to place €4.5bn of its loans on the market. Commenting on the move

Mr Sherlock said: “Selling off these loans at a fraction of their value means the vultures will be circling around in no time, looking to make big money at the expense of hard pressed families.

“The volume of the loans being off-loaded is extremely alarming. The outlook for those who find themselves in the position of having their loans sold off can only be described as grim.”