Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
1171. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department will be in the position to sanction the use of multi-breed artificial insemination straws from 1 January 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56450/23]
View answerThe Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) is the body approved in Ireland in accordance with the relevant EU legislation to conduct testing, genetic evaluation and publication of breeding values for dairy and beef cattle. ICBF are responsible for issuing AI codes and ensuring the traceability of this process is upheld.
I have been informed by ICBF that the systems have now been put in place to facilitate the use of mixed pooled semen. An AI code can now be obtained by applying through ICBF for each specific mix of multi -breed straws. In the event that either the bull breed and/or specific bull is changed in the mix, a new AI code must be applied for.
ICBF will validate the sire of a calf if the calf is genotyped and can be parentage verified. It is possible for this to be done by any breeder who wishes to avail of genotyping.
