Sustainable Ruminant Genetics (SRG) has today, 1st September 2026, launched the new subsidised bovine genetics genotyping scheme, providing Northern Ireland farmers with greater access to genomic information to support future breeding and management decisions.
Initially, the scheme will cover all females and breeding males (registered as bulls), allowing farmers to begin genotyping eligible animals and submitting samples to the SRG Genotyping Lab. From 1st January 2027, the scheme will expand further to include every calf born and registered in 2027.
Through the scheme the cost of genotyping an animal will be £11 plus VAT per sample plus the price of the tag. Farmers will receive a £13 payment for every eligible genotype submitted which will cover the cost of the tag and genotyping. The scheme will allow farmers to get a full genomic profile of their herd and have the costs fully covered.
The launch of the genotyping scheme is a major milestone for SRG and the wider Northern Ireland livestock industry.
Genotyping provides farmers with valuable information about the genetic makeup of their animals, supporting more informed breeding and management decisions. By understanding more about the genetic potential of their livestock, farmers can use this information when making decisions about breeding and selecting replacement animals.
To take part in the scheme, farmers must first register with SRG. Once registered, farmers can order their tags from an approved tag supplier and begin submitting samples for genotyping.
Farmers who have not yet registered can do so today by visiting www.srgni.com.
For further information contact SRG on 028 2046 2280, or email [email protected].
