Spread of lumpy skin disease

13.10.2016

Question for written answer P-007744-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Ismail Ertug (S&D) , Maria Noichl (S&D)

Lumpy skin disease, an epizootic disease, has been spreading steadily to European cattle since its arrival from the Middle East in 2012. It has now reached the Balkan region, and two Member States — Greece and Bulgaria. Lumpy skin disease rarely kills the afflicted animals but the risks for livestock farmers, such as falls in exports and restrictions on the transfer of and trade in live animals and certain products of animal origin, can have catastrophic consequences.

The disease is expected to spread rapidly to other Member States.

— What does the Commission intend to do to ensure a swift and coordinated response to this outbreak of the disease and to limit its further spread?— Does the Commission plan to disburse financial support to Member States and provide coordination for the establishment of an effective cross-border vaccination belt?