Explanatory note

This Order implements Council Directive 92/102 (O.J. No. L355, 5.12.92, p. 32) so far as it relates to the identification and registration of sheep and goats. It prohibits a person from keeping sheep or goats on any holding unless certain details in respect of that holding are notified to the Department (Article 3). A duty is imposed on all such persons to ensure that no sheep or goat is moved off a holding (Article 4) unless it is marked in accordance with this Order. Any animal imported from outside the European Union must be marked in accordance with this Order within 30 days of the date of import or before it is moved from the holding of destination if sooner (Article 5). It provides restriction on removal of marks (Article 6) and for the construction of ear tags (Article 7). The exposure for sale of any sheep or goat at a market or sale of such animals is prohibited unless such animal is marked in accordance with this Order (Article 8(1)). A duty is also imposed on a person in charge of any slaughterhouse to ensure that no sheep or goat is admitted to such premises unless it is marked in accordance with this Order (Article 8(2)).