Northern Ireland Farmers Can Join £60m Bovine Genetics Scheme
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has called on dairy and suckler-beef farmers across Northern Ireland to enrol in the Bovine Genetics Genotyping Scheme. Registration will open on September 1, and the initiative is intended to support the genetic efficiency and sustainability of the region’s cattle herds.
The scheme is part of the £60m Bovine Genetics Project, which DAERA is delivering with Sustainable Ruminant Genetics through the DAERA Sustainable Agriculture Programme. Financial assistance will cover genotyping for existing breeding animals, including animals that may become future replacements.
From January 2027, calves born and registered during the calendar year on the Northern Ireland Food Animal Information System will also be eligible for genotyping. Farm businesses will receive £13 for every eligible genotype submitted through the scheme.
Farmers must opt in to receive the payment. Registration is available through the Bovine Genetics Project User Portal on the Sustainable Ruminant Genetics website, where herd owners can also review which animals qualify.
Genotyping analyses an animal’s DNA from an ear-tissue sample collected through an ear tag. DAERA said the process is similar to the method used in the Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Eradication Programme. The resulting information can identify traits such as feed efficiency and health-related characteristics at an earlier stage, according to the department.
Mr Muir said the project would help create a “more resilient, efficient and environmentally sustainable bovine livestock sector”. He said genotyping would give herd owners more accurate information for breeding choices and encouraged all eligible farm businesses to seek the available support.
CAFRE training will publish full guidance from September 1, including key dates, eligibility requirements and instructional videos. Training will be available online and in person. Farmers can obtain further information from Sustainable Ruminant Genetics on 028 2046 2280 or through a DAERA-approved tag supplier.
