We have recently been speaking to the Animal Plant and Health Agency to discuss rules on sheep registration and movements.  Applications to register temporary use of land to keep livestock (TLA) are becoming popular now and something which should be used where a grazier has sole occupancy over the land.

Animal Plant and Health Agency (APHA) have confirmed, if the livestock are transferred on a TLA, the liability would fall with the grazier.  If the livestock were transferred, without the use of a TLA, through a full movement, the person in control of the land could become liable for the sheep.

This is a concern, if an arable farmer had tack sheep grazing turnips over the winter period and these sheep were transferred on an AML 1 form.  If an RPA inspection took place on the arable farm, the inspector could look at sheep tagging and if the animals did not comply, the arable farmer could be liable for the penalty.  If the arable farm had a sizable area for example 2,000 acres of land, this would generate a Basic Payment income in excess of £160,000 and potentially receive a penalty of 3% (£5,000).  We would therefore advise to make full use of a TLA application where possible.

If you wish to discuss your sheep movement situation and the possible implications, contact George at georgedrewett@fcgagric.com or your local FCG office.