Genotyping Scheme
The Northern Ireland Bovine Genetics Genotyping Scheme launched on 1st September 2026 where farmers are now eligible for subsidised genotyping. The BGP will initially cover all breeding animals (both breeding males and females) e.g (cows, heifers, followers and bulls). From 1st September 2026 to 31st December 2026, all females, including female calves, are eligible. Male calves are also eligible if they are registered as a bull (‘B’) on NIFAIS. From 1st January 2027, the scheme will extend to include every calf registered on NIFAIS during 2027 (males, females and bulls).
To sign-up to the Genotyping Scheme herd-owners must first register for the Bovine Genetics Project (BGP). Herd-owners can register for the BGP on the SRG NI website found here. Herd-owners will log in using their Government Gateway or NIDA login.
Once you have signed up to the BGP you can register for the Genotyping Scheme following the steps below:
- Opt in to the Genotyping Scheme and accept the Terms and Conditions.
- Select a laboratory from the approved laboratory list.
- If selecting the SRG partner laboratory, enter your Direct Debit details*. Payments for genotyping will only be collected once samples arrive at the laboratory.
- Nominate a tag supplier to provide access to your list of eligible animals.
- The system will automatically pre-select eligible animals.
- Order your DNA tissue sampling tags directly from your chosen tag supplier, your chosen tag supplier will have a list of all your eligible animals.
- Begin genotyping eligible animals from 1 September 2026.
* = Collecting Direct Debit details is necessary to keep the cost of genotyping down. You will only be charged once your DNA samples arrive in the lab.
Training
Access the Training Course here: Bovine Genetics Project Training
Genotyping Process
Register
Register your herd for the Bovine Genetics Project at www.srgni.com
Order DNA Tags
Order your DNA tags from an approved supplier.
Tag & Send Sample
Tag the animal, collect the DNA sample and send it away to the laboratory for testing.
Lab Processing
The laboratory receives and processes the DNA sample.
Valid Genotype
The sample contains sufficient tissue and the genomic test is successfully completed.
If your sample needs further action
On rare occasion your sample may require further action. Follow the steps below if they occur.
Empty Sample
No tissue sample is present, so the laboratory cannot perform the genomic test.
Low Call Rate
A sample was received, but the laboratory was unable to successfully run the genomic test.
DNA Analysis Complete
Your genomic results are now available to view on the SRG Portal.
What is the cost of Genotyping?
The cost of genotyping will be £11 plus VAT per sample plus the price of the tag. DAERA are subsidising the cost of genotyping for farmers at a cost of £13 per eligible animal.
What labs are approved?
The current labs approved for the Genotyping Scheme are Weatherbys/Eurofins which have an agreed price of £11 per genotype excluding VAT.
What tag suppliers are approved?
The four main tag suppliers that are approved for the genotyping scheme are:
- Countryside Services Ltd (Caisley)
- Datamars Agri UK Ltd
- Fane Valley (Allflex)
- Shearwell – Joseph Walls
Once you register for the scheme and select your tag supplier you will be able to access your eligible animal list on the SRG User Portal. You can then order your genotyping tags by contacting your tag supplier.
What animals are eligible?
From September 2026, all existing and future breeding males and females. This includes cows, heifers, heifer calves and any male registered as a Bull on NIFAIS. Calves are eligible but they must be registered as females or bulls.
In 2027 all calves born and registered on NIFAIS (both breeding and finishing) (females, males and bulls).
What is Genotyping?
Find out more about Genotyping and Genomics here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find out answers to frequently asked questions about the Genotyping Scheme here.