Ulster Beekeepers' Association Press Release
Warning to All Beekeepers - Varroa Mites found in Ireland.
Honeybee colonies infested with Varroa mites die out in between six months and two years if not properly treated. If this was allowed to happen it would have devastating consequences for both beekeepers and fruit growers. The mite has, however, no effect on humans, honey or any other hive product.
Ireland was the last area in the northern hemisphere to discover Varroa: two infested colonies have been identified in Co. Sligo, so it is possible that the whole island, north and south could be infested in the next couple of years.
The Ulster Beekeepers’ Association has just met in emergency session in order to co-ordinate the activities if its affiliated associations and to offer advice to all beekeepers.
All associations in NI plan to demonstrate to all interested beekeepers the procedures for detecting Varroa mites. A colony of honeybees would be close to collapse and too far gone to save if proper diagnosis was not carried out and action taken only when the colony appeared distressed.
There is no need to treat unless a Varroa infestation is confirmed. The UBKA recommend the following:
1) There should be at least one Varroa floor in each apiary and the hive debris below this should be constantly monitored.
2) Hives being moved should be checked for Varroa mites before moving and swarms of unknown origin should be destroyed or similarly checked.
3) Bees should be kept in hives with removable floors which should permit the use of a Varroa floor.
4) Where Varroa infestation is known or suspected the Department of Agriculture must be informed.
Tel. 01232-524879 or 01232-524866.
The UBKA would remind all beekeepers that the Bee Disease Control Order (Northern Ireland) 1998 comes into operation on 22nd June 1998. Under this order American Foul Brood, European Foul Brood and Varroasis require to be notified to the Department of Agriculture.
Beekeeping associations affiliated to the UBKA are located at Belfast, Dromore(Co.Down), Fermanagh, Mid-Ulster, Roe Valley, Mid-Antrim, East Antrim and Randalstown.
Notes for Editors
1) Further information, interviews or demonstrations can be arranged by contacting any of the following
Michael Young, President. Tel. 01846-689724.
Jim Fletcher, Hon. Secretary. Tel. 01247-872163.
or Norman Walsh, Vice Chairman. Tel. 01846-682578.
2) The secretaries of the affiliated associations are as follows:
Belfast, Phelim Breen. Tel. 01247-816884
Dromore, Martin Johnston. Tel. 01846-693063.
Fermanagh, Howard McConnell. Tel. 01365-531361.
Mid-Ulster, John Hull. Tel. 01868-738702.
Roe Valley, Dave Atherton. Tel. 01504-860075.
Mid-Antrim, Jim McWhirter. Tel. 01266-880075.
East Antrim, Des Blair. Tel. 01574-274566.
Randalstown, Trevor Johnston. Tel. 01849-322189.
The number of beekeepers in England has been reduced by 50% in the last six years due mainly to Varroa mite infestation. Beekeepers in Norther Ireland are advised not to import bees from the Republic of Ireland until the full extent of the Varroa problem is known.
Ulster Beekeepers’ Association, 26 Coach Road, Comber, Co. Down BT23 5QX N.Ireland.
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