Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

408. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the electronic tagging of sheep will be delayed (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28960/18]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I announced the extension of EID to all sheep on 2 May 2018. The ability to identify and trace animals is critical from an animal health, food safety and animal welfare perspective. The current system was introduced in 2010. The system is complex, with multiple and different scenarios associated with the movement/trading of sheep – necessitating a 44 page Step by Step Guide published by the Department. The current system necessitates the manual transcription of a series of individual lengthy tag numbers at each point of transaction along the supply chain – which provides significant ongoing challenge in the context of an effective traceability system.

The main benefits of the new arrangements can be summarised as relating to reduced complexity associated with tag types and retagging of animals, readable and accurate records, and reduced administrative burden for farmers. It will critically improve industry and the State's capacity to effectively respond – in a timely, targeted, focused and accurate way - to critical animal health and food safety incidents/events. It also facilitates DAFM, acting on behalf of the industry, in engaging more proactively in seeking and achieving new market access for Irish sheep and sheep meat products.

Hence, the new rules will provide a more robust sheep traceability system and will further support the development and sustainability of the sheep industry as detailed in the Food Wise 2025 Strategy.

I accept that additional costs will accrue to farmers in extending EID to all sheep. In that context I announced the introduction of a one off support measure up to a maximum of €50 per keeper for the first purchase of EID tags. Electronic tag readers and associated software are included as eligible investments in the Targeted Agriculture Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) scheme to assist sheep farmers in flock management.

My officials and I have met with a number of the stakeholders in the sheep industry since I announced the new rules on 2 May. A number of submissions have also been made on the matter. I am currently considering the views expressed by all parties and will make a further statement when I have completed these deliberations.