Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 December 2023
45. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will advise on plans to change existing rules around herd owners and herd keepers, given the impact the current process has on women in agriculture and young farmers in farm partnerships; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55408/23]
View answerA herdnumber is an administrative device, issued by my Department for the purposes of disease control. A herdnumber, therefore, does not imply ownership of land or ownership of any animals tested or kept under that herdnumber.
There are two roles associated with a herdnumber - a herdowner and a keeper.
The role of keeper can only be assigned to one natural person over the age of 18. This is to ensure that one natural person is assigned clear responsibility and accountability for the health and welfare of the animals.
Under existing criteria, it is however possible for more than one person to be registered as herdowner. This system has been in place for many years and there are many examples of herd numbers being associated with multiple registered herd owners.
Officials in my Department have been engaged with stakeholders on their concerns regarding herd numbers. My Department will continue to consider this important issue and engage with relevant stakeholders.
