For farmers, livestock show organisers and animal traders, accurate records are central to protecting Ireland’s food chain. The AIM animal traceability Ireland system brings together identification and movement information for key livestock species, helping authorities trace animals from their holding of origin.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s AIM publication, first issued in December 2020 and updated on 12 October 2026, provides a central reference point for registration, movement notifications, shows, exports and compliance requirements.
AIM animal traceability Ireland: what the system covers
Animal identification systems are used to record and trace movements involving cattle, pigs, sheep and goats. These records support disease control, regulatory oversight and consumer confidence by making it possible to follow food-producing animals through the supply chain.
The guidance also includes information for horses and camelids, as well as transport and trade involving live animals. Farmers should use the relevant species-specific rules and check the latest forms before moving animals.
Key areas included in the AIM guidance
- Cattle identification and movement recording through the cattle system
- National pig identification and tracing requirements
- National sheep and goat identification systems
- Horse and camelid information
- Livestock shows and fairs
- Live-animal transport and welfare rules
- Exports to non-EU countries and health certification
- Holding, flock and herd number applications
Shows, fairs and temporary animal movements
Special procedures apply when bovine animals are moved to a livestock show or fair. Organisers may need a livestock show or fair number, while exhibitors may need certificates or movement notifications before animals leave a holding.
The publication lists forms for applying for or renewing a show or fair number, requesting compliance certificates for bovine movements, and notifying temporary imports or returns connected with shows in Ireland, Northern Ireland or elsewhere in the EU.
Practical steps before moving animals
- Confirm that the holding, flock or herd details are current.
- Check identification and registration requirements for the species concerned.
- Complete the correct movement notification or certificate before departure.
- Keep supporting records available for inspection.
- Review welfare and transport obligations before loading.
Inspections can identify traceability breaches, and restrictions may follow where records, tags or movement details do not comply. The department also provides a traceability quiz covering cattle, sheep and horse requirements.
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Digital services, exports and applications
AIM portal services include resources for farm-to-farm ovine movements, movement applications and installation guidance for the ovine movement app. Farmers applying for a flock or herd number can access the ER1 application form, completion guidance and frequently asked questions.
For international trade, the publication provides links to third-country livestock agreements and health certificates. Separate guidance is also available for horse exports, live-animal transport and fees payable on live exports.
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Why compliance matters
Reliable identification and movement records help the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine respond quickly to disease risks and verify the origin of livestock. They also support lawful trade and protect the reputation of Irish agricultural produce.
Farmers and organisers should rely on the latest official forms and instructions, particularly where documents have been updated for 2025 or 2026. The AIM publication also contains privacy information and guidance on addressing non-compliances identified during identification and registration inspections.
Key takeaway
The AIM animal traceability Ireland framework is an essential compliance resource for anyone responsible for livestock identification, movement, shows, fairs or exports. Checking the correct requirements before an animal moves can prevent avoidable delays, restrictions and enforcement action.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
