The British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) has announced that, Defra has issued updated guidance for movement of selected materials from GB to Northern Ireland
Following feedback from industry, Defra have introduced temporary updated measures and associated guidance which will benefit some exporters, while discussions continue for sustainable longer-term arrangements. In terms of plants and soil/growing media, exporters may now move bulbs or vegetables with growing media attached, as well as plants that have been grown in soil, from England, Wales and Scotland to Northern Ireland. This is provided they are sent by an authorised operator and meet GB plant passporting requirements for growing media. Goods must be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate for all movements between GB and NI.
Growing media as a standalone commodity remains prohibited from entry to NI from GB, as do prohibited and high-risk plants
Exporters are now also permitted to transport used agricultural and forestry machinery without the need for a phytosanitary certificate, providing the machinery has been washed to remove excessive soil and debris. Machinery is not required to be entirely free from soil prior to export, nor does it require an inspection by plant health inspector prior to movement from GB to NI.
Picture caption: Exporters may now move bulbs or vegetables with growing media attached to Northern Ireland