Vol. 539 No. 1
76 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his views on whether there is a sufficient number of outlets throughout the country to deal with the demand for tags by farmers as a result of the introduction of the new sheep tagging regime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18803/01]
Eight tag suppliers have been approved to supply tags to farmers under the national sheep identification system. This allows farmers a wide choice as to the type of tag they wish to use and commercial competition has ensured that tags are available at a reasonable price. The approved suppliers have now processed over two million tags and I am confident that the demand for tags can be met in full within a reasonable time-frame.
