Public hearing debates bull semen

Some farmers want to import pure Jersey bull semen into the island

The controversial subject of whether bull semen should be allowed to be imported into Jersey is being discussed at a series of public hearings.

The government's scrutiny panel is hearing evidence from a number of different organisations, including the Royal Jersey Agricultural Society.

The island's competition authority will also be giving its views.

People are invited to have their say at a public meeting at the town hall on Tuesday evening.

Mixed views

Some farmers on the island want to boost milk production by changing the genetics of Jersey cows through the importation of bull semen.

However, other farmers are concerned it would threaten the island herd's unique status.

A States debate on the matter was withdrawn in May when the scrutiny panel decided it wanted to investigate.

A report on the future of the island's dairy industry backed the importation of pure Jersey bull semen and said it should be allowed to help improve the cattle stock.

The scrutiny panel will hold a further hearing on 20 June.