Traceability would give sheep exports a competitive edge
He said Ireland already uses a “one tag for life” approach for movement traceability. The adoption of full electronic identification would enhance flock management, allowing for more efficient animal recording and more streamlined sale and movement between farms, marts, and processors.
Mr Spellman outlined his objectives for the Irish sheep sector to industry leaders at the European Association of Livestock Marts at Ciney in Belgium. Nationwide tagging would mean all sheep being electronically tagged on leaving their holdings of origin, with at least one electronic identification tag. The measure would cover all sheep movements.
