Scrapie Monitored Flock Scheme

The Scrapie Monitored Flock Scheme (SMFS) was introduced in Northern Ireland in August 1993 to facilitate sheep and goat owners who wished to maintain a breeding flock or herd for intra-Community trade purposes.  Participation in the scheme is voluntary but is a pre-requisite for anyone wishing to maintain a breeding flock or herd for intra-Community trade purposes, including trade with the South.  It ensures that the sheep to be exported fully meet the export health requirements in respect of scrapie.

To join the scheme there must be no evidence of scrapie within a flock in the 3 years prior to the application to join.  Therefore, flocks which have been in existence for less than 3 years at the date of application will not be eligible to join the scheme.

The terms of the scheme, among other things, require members to have all animals in the flock clinically inspected annually by a Private Veterinary Practitioner for signs of scrapie.  In addition an Animal Health and Welfare Inspector will carry out regular inspections to ensure that flock records are in order, all animals are accounted for, the premises are suitable, and appropriate biosecurity measures are being taken.

The SMFS in Northern Ireland is operated on a full cost recovery basis, with members required to pay an initial registration fee and an annual membership renewal fee, currently £189.07 and £90.31 respectively.

If you are interested in becoming part of the scheme you can join by completing the application form attached.

Further information on the scheme is available in the Scrapie Monitored Flock Scheme Rules.

Alternatively, please contact Scrapie Section on (028) 9052 5275