Farmers are being urged to share their views in a public consultation on proposals to introduce mandatory Electronic Identification (EID) tags for newborn cattle in Northern Ireland.
Under the plans, which could come into operation from late 2027, all newborn calves would be required to be tagged with an EID tag.
This tag would contain a microchip programmed with the unique identification number of the animal. This number will also remain printed on the pair of conventional plastic ear tags worn by the calf.
EID tags
The Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) said that 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 February 23, 2026, also seeks feedback on proposals to make EID tags a different colour from non-EID tags.
DAERA said this would make it easier to determine if animals are electronically identified.
Consultation
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has urged all stakeholders to share their views on the proposals.
“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,” he said.
A phased approach is being proposed, with voluntary bovine EID being introduced first from mid-2026.
The department said that subject to a favourable response to the consultation, mandatory EID could then be introduced for newborn calves at some point during 2027.
The consultation document along with details on how to respond are available from the DAERA website.
