New licensing arrangements for importing bovine semen into NI

Importation of semen into NI without following the correct procedures could result in enforcement action and potential prosecution
Importation of semen into NI without following the correct procedures could result in enforcement action and potential prosecution

New licensing procedures for importing bovine semen into Northern Ireland from Britain has been announced.

Individuals and organisations who import bovine semen to NI from GB no longer need to obtain a specific import licence, as this material can now be imported under the terms of a general licence.

However, bovine semen imports must also be accompanied by an export health certificate signed by an Official Veterinarian, appointed by the Animal Plant Health Agency (APHA) in Britain.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) said that anyone wishing to import bovine semen should familiarise themselves and be able to comply with the conditions set out in the general licence.

In order to safeguard Northern Ireland’s high health status and to mitigate the risk of disease in animals, the Department has comprehensive powers to ensure that all aspects of artificial reproduction practices are in line with existing regulations.

Importation of semen into NI without following the correct procedures could result in enforcement action and potential prosecution.

Artificial insemination is the process of collecting sperm cells from a male animal and manually depositing them into the reproductive tract of a female.

Only processed semen, which originates in Northern Ireland, and has been collected in a collection centre approved by the Department or which has been imported into Northern Ireland in accordance with the Departments import requirements, may be distributed.