European Commission allows flexibility on sheep identification rules The Scottish Government has been successful in negotiations with the EU on plans for a proportionate cross compliance system for Scottish sheep farmers. The European Commission is content with Scotland’s proposals and commented positively on the steps taken in Scotland, including the development of ScotEID – the Scottish electronic identification database. The Scottish solution takes account of the unique nature of Scotland’s diverse sheep industry. Under the new regime Scottish farmers must comply with the EU regulations to avoid penalties. However, some leeway at inspection is to be allowed – to account for technology failures and the difficulties associated with gathering sheep on extensive hill terrain. Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said: ‘Although this regulation has not been the easiest to implement, we fought hard to promote our unique Scottish position on sheep electronic identification and …
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Sheep EID decision positive for Scotland