Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

The benefits of an electronic identification system are significant when additional readings are required associated with the requirements of an eradication programme.

The introduction of an electronic identification system would lead to higher costs for identifiers and reading equipment. The report highlighted that the direct costs and benefits are not balanced all along the production chain. Costs are incurred by the keepers in the holding of birth while most of the benefits of an electronic identification system accrue to the stakeholders in downstream activities such as livestock marts and slaughter plants. Thus, the unbalanced distribution of costs and benefits may be considered as an obstacle to the compulsory introduction of electronic identification technology in the bovine sector.

I assure the Deputy that this Department will continue to be represented at the working group on bovine identification and we will participate fully in discussions on any proposals that may emerge to ensure that account is taken of Ireland's interests.

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