THE States have agreed to lift the ban on bull semen imports into the Island.
A proposal to end the 220-year ban on importing semen, tabled by Chief Minister Frank Walker and backed by Scrutiny, was approved by 34 votes to 15. The vote was taken this afternoon after nearly two days of debate.
Supporters of the move, which would also allow semen from other breeds imported for beef cattle, say it could increase the milk yield of Jersey’s dairy cows by up to 50%.
But detractors say it threatens the purity of the world-famous Jersey cow, and will have a profound cultural effect on the Island.
• Full report and reaction in Saturday’s Jersey Evening Post.
