The free collection service provided in 2008 for the TSE surveillance programme for ordinary fallen sheep (over 18 months of age) will end today on 31 December 2008.

Ordinary sheep which die on farm after that date should not be notified to the Department's collection service provider, Glenfarm Holdings Ltd.

The ending of the ordinary fallen sheep collections under the TSE surveillance programme does not affect the continuing free collection service for fallen sheep and goats (over 18 months of age) originating from Scrapie Monitored Flocks, fallen sheep (over 18 months of age) from flocks restricted under the Compulsory Scrapie Flocks Scheme and all fallen goats (over 18 months of age) from any herd. Eligible sheep and goats which have died within the previous 24 hours will continue to be collected and tested for TSEs in accordance with EU requirements.

Flock / herd keepers should notify Glenfarm Customer Services at (028) 9445 1919 between 8.00 am and 4.00 pm Monday to Friday and 9.00 am to noon on Saturdays if they have an eligible sheep or goat for collection.

Carcasses must be tagged for identification purposes.