The results show particularly high failings in registering and tagging of calves. NFU Scotland is urging farmers to make sure that tagging and registration of calves is up to date to prevent issues at inspection.

Many farmers are in the height of calving so will be extremely busy, but they still need to keep their tagging and records in order. While this may fall to the bottom of the list of jobs, the potential penalties arising from breaches make registering and tagging calves vital. If farmers feel they have an issue, they should call BCMS who can help rectify problems.

Cattle inspections

Three percent of all holdings with cattle will be inspected, with increased weighting put on farms with previous breaches. Furthermore, 5% of Scottish Suckler Support Scheme claimants and animals also need to be inspected (where appropriate inspection will cover both). Much to farmers’ frustration, there is an EU expectation that RPID will carry out these inspections unannounced.

Farmers need to be alert to what an inspection might mean for their business

NFU Scotland president Andrew McCornick said: “Given the pressure on incomes, farmers need to be alert to what an inspection might mean for their business.

“I know it is always a challenge to keep on top of registrations and tagging, but the reality is that you run the risk of potentially losing thousands of pounds if calves are found by officials on inspection to be untagged and unregistered.

“Not only do you face penalties from your basic payments, but the untagged and unregistered calves could be rendered valueless and deemed unfit for the food chain because the traceability cannot be guaranteed.

“Nothing has changed in the regulations, so with inspections still to be completed, I urge all cattle keepers to take a bit of time to ensure tagging and registrations are up to speed. That would also provide the opportunity to make sure animal movement records, deaths and cattle passports – all of which will also be inspected – are correct. It will be time well spent should an inspection be called.”

Advice or assistance with cattle registrations

For those seeking advice or assistance with cattle registrations, the BCMS helpline number is 0345-050 1234. In the event of an inspection, the reference number associated with any BCMS enquiry may be useful.

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