More emphasis on breeding stock to advance livestock sector
- importation of Texel embryo from UK on the cards

Georgetown, GINA, November 30, 2007.

Government’s commitment to further development of the livestock sector is heightening with attention being given to the importation of Texel sheep embryos from the United Kingdom (UK).
            This is in keeping with efforts to improve the local breeding stock in accordance with the administration’s strategic programme for expanding the livestock industry as part of its diversification thrust. The importation will be done under a project that has started and which is being facilitated through the British High Commission.
It is expected that the embryos will be in Guyana sometime during next March/April for implantation into animals that have been identified for the activity, according to Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud.
The embryos will be implanted into the Black Belly sheep being bred at the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) at its Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara breeding station.
            Last October, an assessment was conducted by a team from the UK including personnel from the Texel Sheep Society to determine the possibility of importing the new breed of sheep, Texel which has been primarily developed for meat.

It is well-known in Europe and in the continents of Africa and South America as a high quality meat producer. In addition, it is also well known in many countries as a breed that transmits its qualities to its offsprings when used for cross-breeding.
            During a recent visit to the UK, Minister Persaud held discussions with officials from the Texel Sheep Society and the scientific firm that will be transporting and implanting the embryos. Another component of the project targets training of local personnel who will be exposed to advanced techniques and technology.
            “The extraction of semen from some of the rams will be looked at so that we can do some artificial insemination and I hope later down in the future, we can also develop embryos,” Minister Persaud said.
            He explained that implanting an embryo allows for 100 percent development as against the use of artificial insemination (AI).
Also as part of the project, other areas of services will be explored through cooperation between the Scotland Agricultural Centre and NARI.
            Government has undertaken various initiatives to develop the livestock industry such as the importation of different breeds of animals including the Boer goat, Black-Belly and Virginia White sheep and Brangus and Zebo cow. This is in recognition of the sector’s potential and its role in socio-economic development, particularly in rural communities.
Apart from the importation of improved breeding stock and embryos, focus continues to be placed on continuation of AI, establishment of animal breeding farms and more pastures to cater for advancement of the livestock industry.

 

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