Denis Naughten
Question:24 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the current problems associated with non-entry to marts and factories due to the loss of cattle tags; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23119/98]
Written Answers. - Cattle Identification Tags.
Denis Naughten
Question:28 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the plans, if any, he has to relax regulations on cattle tags in view of the fact that many animals are losing one tag during transport to marts and factories, thereby being refused entry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23117/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 28 together.
In accordance with national legislation, Statutory Instrument 103 of 1996 and Council Regulation (EC) 820/97, cattle born here since 1996 must be identified by means of two plastic ear tags each containing the same unique tag number, whenever they are moved from a holding whether to another holding, a mart a meat plant or for export. An animal bearing only one plastic ear tag is not legally identified and cannot be allowed to move. Experience has shown that where animals are correctly and securely tagged in accordance with instructions, tag loss in transit is low. There is no derogation as regard movement from the double tag requirement provided for in the Council regulation or in the national legislation.
As the Deputy will be aware, the correct identification of cattle is an essential requirement for traceability purposes. It is most important therefore that all aspects of the tagging arrangements are fully complied with at all times in order to provide the assurances demanded by consumers.