McGuinness calls for support for farmers
After spending the greater part of his time in Ardboe since the confirmation of the Foot and Mouth case in the area, Martin McGuinness, MP for the Mid-Ulster constituency, said:
``Everywhere I went there was a sense of devastation but everyone's immediate sympathy was with the Donnelly family and the wider farming community.
``I would echo the sentiments of those closest to the Donnelly's that Paddy Donnelly is an exemplary farmer and should receive the help and support of the general community at this most difficult time. The immediate task before us is establishing the cause and source of this infection in Ardboe and containment of the outbreak. This is of the most critical importance in the fight against this debilitating disease.
``The entire area around Ardboe and East Tyrone is now in very grave danger from Foot and Mouth disease. Everyone has a responsibility and a duty to assist in every way possible, the Department of Agriculture Officials who are working tirelessly to eradicate this disease.
``Confirmation of the latest case of Foot and Mouth in North Antrim and two further 'Hot suspect' cases in Ardboe represent an increasing threat to the farming community, entire agricultural industry and economic fabric on the island of Ireland. No effort should be spared by all of us in continuing our support for the farming community and to take in the utmost seriousness the advice and instructions issued by the Departments of Agriculture in Belfast and Dublin.''
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