Vol. 510 No. 3
51 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the steps, if any, he is undertaking to ensure that farmers are fully informed of the conditions of the national beef assurance scheme and the associ ated herd register; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22330/99]
The general terms and conditions of the national beef assurance scheme are contained in the National Beef Assurance Scheme Bill, 1999, which is currently before the Oireachtas. In particular, the Bill provides a legal basis for the introduction of a mandatory system of application by and inspection, approval and registration of all persons involved in the primary production and processing of cattle and beef, including farmers. The precise details of this aspect of the scheme will be finalised when the legislation is in place.
I emphasise, however, that the broad outlines of the scheme have been discussed in great detail with the representative trade organisations, including the farming organisations, and they are fully aware of the proposed conditions of the scheme. In addition, I want to give assurances that, when the legislation is being implemented, a comprehensive information and advice programme will be conducted in conjunction with Teagasc and the industry to ensure that all participants are fully aware of their obligations under this aspect of the scheme.
The other element of the national beef assurance scheme, the introduction of a comprehensive animal tracing system, is already being implemented and farmers have been notifying details of private sales of cattle for the past year. The maintenance of the herd register is of course an important element of cattle traceability. To facilitate owners to meet their obligations, a consolidated herd register and animal remedies book was supplied to all herdowners free of charge earlier this year. The book contains clear instructions as to how records must be kept. In addition, I have been made arrangements with Teagasc to conduct a nationwide training campaign on cattle traceability and the herd register. Some 200 training sessions will be held throughout the country covering all aspects of tagging, registration, identification and cattle movement and monitoring. Teagasc has also produced an explanatory guide for herdowners to the herd register and cattle traceability requirements. I am confident that these measures will ensure that all farmers are fully informed of their obligations in relation to these matters.
