June 1 deadline fast approaching for new sheep EID and goat tagging rules

Sheep and goat keepers are reminded that all sheep being moved off a holding from 1 June 2010 must have an EID tag set, and all goats must have two matching tags.

Keepers should order tags in advance of them being needed, and maintain a sufficient stock of tags on their holding. This should include a stock of red replacement tag sets. For some tag suppliers, it is advisable to allow up to two weeks for delivery.

Newborn sheep and goats must be identified before they reach nine months of age (or six months if normally housed overnight) or before they leave the holding of birth, whichever is sooner. Sheep must have two identifiers with matching numbers, one of which must contain an EID device. Goats must have two identifiers with matching numbers, and one must contain an EID device if they are to be exported.

Lost tags must be replaced within 28 days of discovery and before the animal leaves the holding. If the animal is still on the holding of birth, a yellow EID tag and matching conventional tag must be used. If not on the holding of birth, a red EID tag and matching red conventional tag must be used. However, if replacement tag information is notified to APHIS-Online, only yellow EID tag sets are needed.

From 1 June 2010, all sheep born before 31 December 2009 must be upgraded to EID before being moved off a holding and all goats must be upgraded to two matching tags.

For sheep and goats born and tagged before 31 December 2009, one old green tag is sufficient provided they are not moving. If these animals do not have any tags, they must be identified under the new rules within 28 days of discovery.

All keepers should have received, and should now be using, a new Flock or Herd Register and Movement Document Book.

Further detailed information can be found on the DARD website or by contacting your DARD Regional Office.

Notes to editors:

1. The introduction of sheep EID is an EU obligation under Council Regulation 21/2004 and requires the individual identity of sheep and goats born after 31 December 2009 to be recorded when they are moved. In order to allow this to be achieved for sheep, the Regulation requires them to be identified with an EID device and a conventional tag.
2. Animals presently on farm will have to be upgraded to the new identification system from 1 June 2010, but only when they move off the holding.
3. The objective is to make it easier to trace individual animals, especially in a serious disease outbreak situation, such as Foot and Mouth Disease.
4. Although the Council Regulation is directly applicable here, the Sheep and Goats (Records, Identification and Movement) Order (NI) 2009 SR No. 411 defines offences, penalties, derogations and some additional provisions necessary to implement the Regulation here.
5. All media enquiries should be directed to the DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.