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Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs An Roinn Talmhaíochta, Comhshaoil agus Gnóthaí Tuaithe Depairtment o' Fairmin, Environment an' Kintra Matthers

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  • Open consultation Consultation on the Introduction of Mandatory Bovine Electronic Identification (EID) in Northern Ireland (NI)

    Topics:
    • Animal Health, Welfare and Trade, 
    • Livestock Farming

    Consultation closes 23 February 2026, 11.59 pm

    Summary

    The Department is seeking views on proposals to introduce the mandatory use of bovine Electronic Identification (EID) in Northern Ireland (NI). We would encourage all those with an interest in the matter to respond to this consultation. The primary method for responses is online via Citizen Space.

    Documents

    • Bovine Electronic Identification Public Consultation Adobe PDF (725 KB)
    • Regulatory Impact Assessment Adobe PDF (376 KB)
    • Rural Needs Impact Assessment Adobe PDF (379 KB)
    • Equality and Disability Needs Screening Adobe PDF (602 KB)
    • Written response questionnaire Adobe PDF (134 KB)

    Help viewing documents

    Consultation description

    It is aimed at stakeholders who have an interest in cattle identification and bovine EID in NI, including herd keepers and the wider industry who may be impacted by the introduction of these proposals. The consultation paper sets out background information on the benefits of bovine EID, including improvements to animal traceability and its impact on animal welfare and health and safety throughout the supply chain. It also sets out the position on bovine EID in other jurisdictions of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Ways to respond

    Respond online
    Email:
    FarmedAnimals.IRM@daera-ni.gov.uk
    Write to:
    Livestock Identification and Germinal Products Policy Branch
    Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs
    Jubilee House
    111 Ballykelly Road
    Ballykelly
    Limavady
    BT49 9HP
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