“Entering the Digital Age”Pat Keena from the Irish Department of Agriculture (DAFM) describes the move asElectronic identification livestock. In fact, all calves born Ireland From 1^er July 2022 should be identified using loops fitted with RFID chips. “Animals move a lot in the system: electronic tags prevent errors”Cül Dara Consultancy's director of consulting organization Catherine Lasquerets reckons. The choice to focus on newborns can be explained by the structure of the Irish sector. ” Most cattle movements affect 2- to 3-year-old animals and youngsters at cattle markets. Cows usually move in parallel circuits, so markets don't need dual electronic and analog equipment. » Beyond the first year, explains Thomas Burke, Livestock Policy Executive at IFA (1).

Also, “Irish cows are herded in January. As a result, on July 1, 2022, 87% of calves have already buckled.The specialist continues. Upstream, all loops are adjusted from 1^er January was distributed in two copies: analog (yellow) and electronic (white).

1 euro refunded for a pair of buckles

The additional cost associated with electronic tags is estimated at 1 euro. To facilitate the transition, the government reimburses 1 euro for each pair of buckles purchased between 2022 and 2025, up to a limit of 100 pairs per farm, making it possible to cover all purchases by small farms, which make up the majority of the sector. Irish. “We expect increased demand for electronic loops to drive down prices”Pat Keena says. Breeders aren't so sure. “These additional costs to breeders, imposed in the name of greater efficiency in the sector, are risks that will last beyond the three years of the subsidy. It remains to be seen whether the economic benefits will reach farm prices.Thomas Bourke notes. Electronic loops actually have limited application Weanling farms. “Incorporation of this technology needs to be improved in beef cattle farms”Catherine recognizes Lascuretus.

A cover of €200,000 for livestock markets

Above all, the improvement of occupational health promoted by DAFM is of concern Cattle markets. The link benefits from a cover of €200,000 to equip itself with the necessary equipment. “ This envelope can cover up to 40% of deposits up to a maximum of €8,000 per request.Pat Keena explains. Almost all cattle markets filed. »

(1) Irish Farmers' Association