A NEW artificial insemination service for four traditional and rare breeds of pigs has been launched.

Up until now very little AI has been available for such breeds because of the high cost of testing and quarantine to meet EU licensing requirements.

Foot-and-mouth restrictions have also made it more difficult with many breeders unable to continue breeding pure unless they have their own boar.

Leaving a sow empty for a prolonged period may cause her to become barren.

However the British Pig Association and Rare Breeds Survival Trust have now joined forces to launch the new initiative.

An AI station in Northern Ireland - Deerpark Pedigree Pigs - is to supply fresh semen for the Tamworth, Berkshire, Middle White and Gloucestershire Old Spot breeds.

Supplies from these animals will be also added to the RBST's regeneration bank, which is currently seeking £2.5m to significantly improve the collection and storage of rare breed genetic material.

"Other traditional breeds will be added to the stud as foot-and-mouth movement restrictions are relaxed," said Mr Robert Overend, chairman of the BPA and owner of Deerpark.

"We are very happy to be working with the RBST to offer pig breeders practical assistance as well as contributing to the regeneration bank launched by the trust.

"Movement restrictions have created serious problems for smaller breeders as the cost of veterinary inspection and disinfection has to be carried by a single boar," he said.

The semen is available only to members of the BPA and the RBST. More information is available from Deerpark Pedigree Pigs on 028 79 386287 or fax 028 79 386511.