The present position is that Eurotags, Mullinahone Co-op, was appointed as the sole supplier of approved cattle ear tags in respect of 1999 on foot of an open tendering competition conducted under national and EU procurement rules. In accordance with the terms and conditions specified in the tendering documentation issued by my Department, the contract with Eurotags covers the period 1 January 1999 to 31 December 1999 with the possibility of an extension for a maximum of two further years.
The supply arrangements for cattle ear tags to apply in respect of the post 1 January 2000 period is currently under review. The matter was recently discussed with the main farming organisations, the views of which will be taken into account in deciding the approach to be taken. On the issue of the open tendering process under EU rules, people are welcome to examine the entire documentation relating to the process under the Freedom of Information Act. All departmental tender processes are operated in a fair, equitable, open and transparent manner.