231. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a name will be removed from a herd number (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49995/26]

A herd number is an administrative device issued by my Department for the purposes of disease control. A herd number does not imply ownership of lands, ownership of any animals kept or tested under that herd number or entitlement to payments under any schemes operated by my Department.

My Department always follows best practice and procedure when dealing with probate issues. In cases where a herdowner is deceased, it is necessary first for my Department to establish legal succession before amending the herdowner role.

Although my Department’s on-farm inspection on 9th June 2026 to assess the holding from a disease control and biosecurity perspective was satisfactory in the case referenced by the Deputy, outstanding information is required before the application by the person named can be further assessed and processed.

The role of herdowner cannot be amended in the case of the application of the person named until the Grant of Probate has been provided to my Department. A Release of Interest form, releasing interest in the herd number will also be required from the beneficiary of the deceased herdowner’s will. The person named was informed by my Department of these requirements on 24th June 2026 and was posted the Release of Interest form.

The person named can contact the Tralee Regional Veterinary Office of my Department, Government Offices, Spa Road, Tralee, V92 VX4V, 021 4851400 or email kerry_dvo@agriculture.gov.ie if they require clarification.