Temporary suspension on the authorisation of new and replacement cattle tags

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has announced a temporary suspension of the authorisation of new and replacement cattle tags to facilitate the implementation of the first phase of the new Northern Ireland Food Animal Information System (NIFAIS) database.

From 12 noon on Saturday 10 June 2017 until 9am on Monday 12 June 2017 tag manufacturers will not be able to seek authorisation from DAERA to produce new or replacement cattle tags. Farmers should ensure they have an adequate supply of new tags for any calves to be tagged and registered over this specific weekend. Farmers are also advised to check that all animals to be moved off farm between these dates are double tagged and purchase replacement tags in advance if required. The authorisation of sheep tags will not be affected.

The NIFAIS database is being developed to replace the current APHIS database. Tag manufacturers currently contact DAERA’s Animal and Public Health Information System (APHIS) requesting authorisation to produce both new and replacement tags. From the 12th of June onwards the authorisation of cattle tag will transfer from APHIS to NIFAIS. Development of NIFAIS is being completed and released in stages with a full roll-out expected in 2019.

• Download further ear tag information 
• Identification, registration and movement of cattle

Notes to editors: 

1. Photo caption: From 12pm on Saturday 10 June 2017 until 9am on Monday 12 June 2017 tag manufacturers will not be able to seek authorisation from DAERA to produce new or replacement cattle tags as the first phase of the new Northern Ireland Food Animal Information System (NIFAIS) database is implemented.
2. Under the Cattle Identification (No 2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1998 and the Cattle Identification (Enforcement) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1998 a herd keeper is responsible for individually identifying each bovine animal in his herd with an approved ear tag applied to each ear.
3. All cattle should be regularly inspected to ensure both tags are in place and the identification numbers are legible. Under the Cattle Identification (No. 2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1998 missing/illegible tags should be replaced within 28 days of being discovered or before the animal is moved from the herd, whichever is the sooner.
4. All farmers should ensure they have an adequate supply of new tags for any calves to be tagged and registered over this weekend.
5. The NIFAIS database is being developed to replace the current APHIS database. Development is being completed and released in stages with an expected completion date of 2019.
6. Authorisation of sheep tags will not be affected.
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8. All media queries should be directed to the DAERA Press Office on 028 9052 4619 or email DAERA Press Office. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07623 974 383 and your call will be returned.

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