Meat and cheese seized at Sea Terminal 

Follows ban aimed at preventing spread of foot-and-mouth disease

Around 5kg of imported meat and cheese has been seized from two people arriving in Douglas today (22 May), government has confirmed.

It follows a ban implemented in April aimed at preventing the spread of foot-and-mouth disease.

The pair arrived on the Island in a campervan, having travelled from Europe.

More than 4kg of cooked meats and 11 packets of cheese (totalling 0.8kg) were confiscated by Customs and Immigration officers.

The seizure is the first made since the ban was implemented in line with UK regulations.

The import restrictions make it illegal to bring common items such as sandwiches, cured meats and cheese from EU and European Economic Area (EEA) countries for personal use.

Government confirmed the seized products will be held while the vehicle owners are formally contacted and added that 'if the matter proceeds to court, they could face a significant fine'.

Dr Amy Beckett, the Isle of Man’s Chief Veterinary Officer, said: "There are currently no foot-and-mouth cases in the British Isles, and we’re acting to keep it that way."

Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, added: "These enhanced restrictions are a crucial step in protecting our vital agricultural industry. 

"I urge livestock keepers to exercise the utmost vigilance for signs of disease, follow strict biosecurity measures, and report any suspicions to us immediately."

Anyone who suspects foot-and-mouth disease should call DEFA immediately on 01624 685844

(Picture supplied by Isle of Man Government)