Farmers' groups in Northern Ireland have reacted angrily to a decision by the
European Union's standing veterinary committee to "regionalise" the potential restrictions to Co Louth.
Exports of live animals and animal products from the othercounties in the State will still be permitted.
The Ulster Farmers' Union they were "absolutely astonished at the speed at which regional concessions were granted to the Republic".
The UFU President, MrDouglas Rowe, asked why Northern Ireland was being subjected to a 30-day wait before the process of regionalisation in its case could even be discussed in Brussels.
And he added "It is a clear case of double standards and unfair treatment.
"Local farmers are frustrated and angered at what is clearly a twin-track approach, where one country or region is treated differently to the others."
PA