The Seeds (Registration, Licensing and Enforcement) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2009

Regulations 10(1), 11(2) and 12(1)

SCHEDULE 2 LICENSED CROP INSPECTORS

PART 1 Species and categories of seed crop that may be inspected by a licensed crop inspector

1.  All categories of seed of a species to which the Seed Marketing Regulations apply except pre-basic and basic seed.

PART 2 Functions that may be specified in a crop inspector’s licence

2.  To authenticate each seed lot sown to produce a seed crop and to record at least one label serial number used for such authentication.

3.  To inspect crops in accordance with instructions from time to time issued by or on behalf of the Department for the purposes of the Seed Marketing Regulations to determine whether the crops meet the relevant standards prescribed in the Seed Marketing Regulations including—

(a) confirmation of the identity of the variety insofar as possible;

(b) the detection and recording of any species impurities or varietal impurities;

(c) the checking of compliance with isolation requirements; and

(d) the assessment of the general condition of the crop including—

(i) whether the crop is in a suitable condition for inspection;

(ii) any pesticide spray damage that may have been caused to the crop; and

(iii) the existence of weeds and diseases.

4.  To issue a field inspection report following the inspection of a seed crop in accordance with Seed Marketing Regulations

5.  To submit to the Department such other reports on the inspection of crops carried out by him as the Department may, from time to time, require.

6.  To keep records of crops inspected by him.

7.  To supervise other licensed crop inspectors as directed by the Department.

PART 3 Conditions that may be imposed by a crop inspector’s licence

8.  To carry out his functions as a licensed crop inspector subject to the supervision of authorised officers.

9.  To carry out his functions as a licensed crop inspector subject to supervision by other licensed crop inspectors authorised by the Department in that behalf.

10.  To carry out his functions as a licensed crop inspector in accordance with instructions relating thereto issued by or on behalf of the Department.

11.  To maintain his expertise by making regular inspections of crops for the purpose of the Seed Marketing Regulations.

12.  To attend such training courses and undergo such examinations on the official inspection of crops as the Department may, from time to time, require.

13.  To notify the Department within 21 days of any change in his contact address.

14.  To inspect not more than the maximum areas, if any, specified by the Department.