Published today on the EU’s legal website, here, is the very welcome news that the EU has confirmed that the ban on importing bees into the the Isle of Man – part of Isle of Man law since the Isle of Man Importation of Bees Order 1988 – is now upheld under European law.
The Annex (on page 20 of 28 pages) to the relevant EU Implementing Decision says, or can be interpreted, to say
The introduction into the Isle of Man of bees in any stage of their life cycle, used hives, skeps or any receptacle used to house bees is prohibited.
Thanks to DEFRA in the UK, The Isle of Man Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture and the Chief Vet of the Isle of Man, Mr Stuart Jaques for their combined persistence in this landmark achievement.
