Sheep-tagging system failure 'could cost millions', warns NFU (From Gazette & Herald)

Sheep-tagging system failure 'could cost millions', warns NFU

THE UK's sheep-tagging system is set for EU inspection later this month, and according to regional livestock board member, David Pearson, failure could cost millions.

That's because if the UK is unable to show accurate traceability and farmers do not show accurate knowledge of the current system, farmers could be faced with having to adopt new EU sheep-tagging regulations by July.

"This system would mean that sheep would have to be double tagged and a paper-based recording system would be introduced for every one of the 4m sheep in the region," said David Pearson, who farms near Skipton. "The NFU believes this would actually damage the sheep industry and cost millions to introduce, so it's vital that we have a successful inspection.

"Because Yorkshire and the North-East is home to more than a quarter of all the sheep in England, it's highly likely that the inspection team will visit the region. This means that all local sheep producers - particularly dealers or people involved in frequent animal movements - must make sure they understand and adhere to the current 'R' and 'S' tag system.

Anyone unsure about any aspects of the current system, whether involving the application of baseline tags, movement tags or replacements, should contact NFU Callfirst as soon as possible on (0870) 845 8458 or alternatively, the NFU website, www.nfuonline.com.

Updated: 13:02 Wednesday, January 12, 2005