asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will review his ban on the export of live sheep to North African and Mediterranean countries if it can be shown that modern livestock boats are available for this trade.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sheep Exports.
47.
I have already relaxed the ban operated for several years on the export of live sheep to Mediterranean countries between mid-March and mid-November. This year I am permitting the trade to continue up to the end of April provided that it is confined to the more mature type of animal. Shipments will, of course, be subject to the animals for export being passed by my Department's veterinary inspectors as healthy and fit to travel. The inspectors will also have to be satisfied as to the suitability of carrying vessels and the arrangements on board for the accommodation and care of the animals in transit.
I intend to re-examine the situation before the end of April with a view to deciding whether the ban should be reimposed.
Will the Minister use his best endeavours to ensure that the meat factories do not try to influence his decision in order to reimpose the ban?
My primary interest all the time has been in producers.