Is it true that the UK is viewed as a lone voice with regard to EID implementation?
Other Member States do not seem to have the same issues as we do with regard to the introduction of EID. This is primarily because their production methods and trading practices are quite different from ours, although Ireland seems to operate a system similar to ours. We have the largest sheep flock in the EU added to topograpghy and climate the problems in UK are caused by the volume of movements Some Member States have already implemented EID (Spain, Italy and Cyprus) and many others are actively working towards its introduction. However, the Commission continues to listen to the UK’s concerns and made significant changes already to the requirements. Minister for Rural Affairs Elin Jones met with Commissioner Vassiliou on 19th January 2009 to discuss a range of Animal Health issues including opposition to compulsory sheep EID. The Commissioner stressed the importance of EID and that it offers the most reliable system of traceability in the event of a disease outbreak.
