A total of 6,443 beef and dairy producers across NI have already signed up to take part in the Bovine Genetics Project being delivered by Sustainable Ruminant Genetics (SRG) Ltd.

As part of the 10-year, £67m initiative, farmers who have registered for the project have been able to start DNA sampling of breeding cattle in their herds from 1 September.

In 2027, DAERA will also cover the cost of genotyping all newborn calves.

According to SRG chief executive John Moore, the project will drive long-term progress in the NI cattle herd.

“We’re delighted with the response so far. But we would urge others not to miss out. It’s simple: register today, order your DNA tissue tags and be ready to benefit from the many opportunities the project will provide,” he said.

Farmers who haven’t registered can do so by visiting srgni.com.