The transition period for new regulations requiring prescriptions for antiparasitic medicines has been extended again by the Minister for Agriculture.

The new regulations, introduced on 13 January 2025, require farmers to get a prescription from a vet for antiparasitic medicines, such as wormers and flukicides.

After 1 December 2025, farmers will no longer be able to buy these products over-the-counter from their local co-op or licensed merchant without first going through a vet.

These medicines must be digitally prescribed through the national veterinary prescription system (NVPS). In May 2025, Minister Heydon announced the deadline was extended until 1 September 2025 and has now pushed this date out by three more months.

The Department said: “While engagement with the NVPS continues to grow, the minister recognises the importance of allowing further time for prescribers, suppliers and farmers to consolidate processes and adapt fully to the system’s requirements.”

The Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association (ICSA) has called on the Minister for Agriculture to use a delay in the introduction of prescription-only rules for antiparasitic medicines to rethink its approach.

ICSA animal health and welfare chair John Barron said: “We fully support the responsible use of veterinary medicines; that’s not the issue. But it has to be done in a way that actually works for farmers, keeps costs down, and protects local supply channels.

“This is a chance to get it right. That means keeping licensed merchants in the supply chain and finding a system that actually works for everyone.”

Offaly-based merchant Ollie Ryan, a member of Merchants Alliance Ireland, said: “We welcome the deferral of the introduction of a prescription for antiparasitics.

“We believe that this deferral provides the minister the opportunity to take a fresh look at the legislation to ensure a workable solution can be found to maintain a competitive supply chain for anti-parasitics.

“This is vital to ensure farmers can access competitively priced antiparasitics into the future.”