Muir encourages stakeholders to respond to consultation on mandatory electronic identification for newborn cattle before closing date

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has urged all stakeholders to share their views in a public consultation on proposals to introduce mandatory Electronic Identification (EID) for newborn cattle.

Under the proposals, which could come into operation from late 2027, all newborn calves would be required to be tagged with an EID tag, containing a microchip programmed with the unique identification number of the animal.  This number will also remain printed on the pair of tags.  

EID technology enables automatic reading by tag readers, potentially reducing the need to physically handle the cattle, as well as eliminating tag reading errors and improving efficiency on farms, at markets and processing sites.

The consultation, which is due to close on 23 February 2025, also seeks feedback on proposals to make EID tags a different colour from non-EID tags, making it easier to determine if animals are electronically identified.

Minister Muir said: “Electronic Identification offers a real opportunity to modernise cattle traceability in Northern Ireland.

“By reducing errors and improving efficiency, EID can strengthen disease control and support the high standards our agri-food sector is known for.  It can also improve animal welfare and health and safety throughout the supply chain.  I would encourage everyone with an interest to share their views before the closing date of 23 February.”

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

Notes to editors:

1. Cattle in Northern Ireland are currently identified for traceability purposes using conventional plastic ear tags. These tags currently are printed with a unique animal number, which are visually read and noted manually, when it needs to be recorded.
2. A phased approach is proposed, with voluntary bovine EID being introduced first from mid-2026.  Subject to a favourable response to the consultation, mandatory EID could then be introduced for newborn calves at some point during 2027.
3. Introducing EID on a voluntary basis will allow those herd keepers who are keen to utilise this technology to adopt it sooner should they wish. 
4. The introduction of voluntary EID in July 2026 is subject to minor legislative amendments and to the necessary changes being made to the Department's Northern Ireland Farm Animal Information System (NIFAIS) system.
5. EID is widely used in animal identification, and it has been mandatory in Northern Ireland to electronically identify sheep since 31 December 2009.