CONTACT:    
Karen Batra, (202) 347-0228, kbatra@beef.org
Tanya Augustson, (202) 347-0228, taugustson@beef.org

Canadian, Australian Leaders Say Private ID Programs Work Best
Ag Committee Leaders Suggest U.S. Plan Follow International Models

Washington, D.C. (September 15, 2005) – Cattle industry leaders and government officials from Canada and Australia told members of the House Ag Committee today how their private-based animal ID systems have been effective.  Witnesses said producer support, a phased-in approach, competitive pricing for ID tags, and minimizing the role of government were key to their nation’s success in identifying food animals. 

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has led the effort to implement an industry-led multi-species national ID program for livestock in the United States.  House Ag Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) convened the hearing today to review Canada’s and Australia’s experience with implementing national animal identification systems. 

“Cattle producers in Australian and Canada have the same concerns that our producers have here in the United States – concerns that producer rights and confidentiality be protected,” says Jay Truitt, NCBA vice president of government affairs.  “These concerns are being addressed through programs coordinated in the private sector while meeting the goal of nationwide animal health surveillance.”

In a letter sent to USDA July 20, key members of the House Ag Committee urged implementation of a private sector-based national animal identification system in the United States and cited examples of existing ID programs in Canada, Australia and Switzerland.  House leaders say these private sector-based systems – in partnership with government – “display qualities of thrift, flexibility and expediency.”

“The programs in Canada and Australia have paved the way for industry-led systems to be successful.  We applaud Chairman Goodlatte for hosting today’s hearing, for his leadership on this issue, and for his support of the program being established here in the Unites States,” says Truitt. 

“Coordinated by a comprehensive, multi-species consortium, the U.S. industry program can maximize producer participation across all livestock sectors, maintain producer confidentiality, achieve the 48-hour traceback capability and utilize existing and developing ID technologies,” says Truitt. “This program was shaped in large part by the discussions we had with industry leaders in other countries, and we’re grateful to be able to learn from their experience.”

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is the largest organization representing America’s cattle industry.  Initiated in 1898, NCBA is the industry leader in education, influencing public policy to improve producer profitability and in preserving the industry’s heritage and future.  Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.