Improved System For Cattle Movements At Marts To Be Introduced Next Week

Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (with special responsibility for Fisheries and Forestry), said that the soon to be introduced Animal Identification and Movement (AIM) system will improve the overall traceability system for cattle.

[ClickPress, Wed Jul 16 2008] The Department this week confirmed that as part of the ongoing upgrading of its computer systems, the AIM system is replacing CMMS in livestock marts from Monday next, 21 July 2008.

According to Minister of State Killeen, ‘The new system is designed to confirm that cattle moving through marts are compliant with the Department's database and that sellers and buyers are recorded as "active" on the database and eligible to trade in accordance with TB and Brucellosis testing and identification requirements. Most of the checks under the AIM system are already in place in marts. However, farmers should check their compliance with the new requirements at the District Veterinary Offices or on arrival at the mart.'

The Clare T.D. explained, 'The operation of the AIM system at marts will improve the overall traceability system for cattle, which provides essential assurances on food safety to consumers and customers of Irish beef. The new system will also allow marts to improve the service they deliver to farmers by providing assurances that animals bought in marts are compliant with the Department's database.'

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (with special responsibility for Fisheries and Forestry), is available for interview and further comment on 0035387-2525304. Alternatively please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media@dunphypr.com
- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available on request

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
media@dunphypr.com
00353-868534900