The benefits of using electronic identification (EID) systems for livestock management was debated at a recent industry conference in Aviemore. Speakers and delegates at the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland’s (IAAS) annual conference last month discussed the merits of using an electronic ear tag or device to manage stock.
The EID tag or device contains a microchip that can be read electronically by producers who have a suitable reader to increase the accuracy of information.
Scott Donaldson, IAAS President said:
“Electronic identification systems are a vital step for farming, bringing huge benefits to the industry and wider rural economy while maximising returns for farmers. IAAS fully support EID implementation as a key part of cementing the auction system as the best place to get a fair price.
“This is an issue which England is lagging on and we hope Scotland will continue to lead rather than delay with implementation.”
The IAAS conference heard from farmer Robert Marshall from Kincraigie Farm, Banchory, who has been using EID on his stock for years. He added:
“We’ve been using EID for over twenty years because it makes good business sense. This was a decision I took myself because EID makes life easier and is the way forward for the industry.”
Conference delegates received a demonstration of both UHF and LF technologies and the differences between these for different livestock. The session was part of a full programme in Aviemore, other speakers included John Kinnaird, Agricultural Champion for Sustainability and Uel Morton, Joint Chair of the Scottish Food Commission. Discussions focussed on collaboration, creative initiatives to modernise the system and the importance of markets for competitive pricing.
The annual conference brings together a cross section of IAAS membership, including a large contingent of trainee and young industry recruits.
Ends
Notes to Editors
The Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS) is the representative body for livestock markets, valuers and auctioneers across Scotland. We fight for the interests of those markets and the central role they play in the working of the rural and agricultural economy.
The Institute advances the interests of our membership and the wider sector through:
- Promoting the livestock market system as the only transparent way to secure the best price and guaranteed payment for everyone playing their part in the rural economy
- Working with politicians and governments to influence regulations so that they strengthen Scotland’s farming industry
- Promoting the achievements of our diverse client base, speaking out on their behalf on the many challenges they face
- Collating and making available the latest information on prices achieved across Scotland’s markets, providing a critical real-time insight into the agricultural economy
- Developing a solid education and examination structure to nurture new talent for livestock auction markets
- Providing an indispensible social hub for farmers and farming communities
For further information, please contact Message Matters: Peter Duncan 07740 469949 or peter@messagematters.co.uk or Louise Robertson 07930 539832 or louise@messagematters.co.uk