Farmers call for French blockades over cow disease cull
Summary
French farmers are protesting against the government's policy of slaughtering cattle infected with Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD). The disease, mainly transmitted by flies, is non-fatal but harms milk production, and protests have included blockades and ransacking offices. The government has faced opposition from some farmers' unions, while vets insist that culling entire herds is necessary due to difficulty in identifying infected cattle.Key Facts
- French farmers are protesting against culling cattle infected with Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD).
- LSD is a contagious disease in cows, spread by fly bites, and it harms milk production.
- Protests have involved road blockades and ransacking of offices in regions like Ariège and Charente-Maritime.
- Two major farmers' unions oppose the government's culling policy, but most vets support it.
- The disease spread to Europe from Africa about ten years ago; France saw its first outbreak in June.
- Since June, France has had about 110 LSD outbreaks, leading to the culling of around 3,000 cows.
- Protests might grow due to broader concerns over EU trade policies and competition from imported goods.
- A large protest is planned in Brussels during an upcoming EU leaders' summit.
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