Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 3 Nov 1994

Vol. 446 No. 7

Written Answers. - Live Cattle Exports.

Avril Doyle

Question:

139 Mrs. Doyle asked the Minister for the Marine whether the pre-emptive decision by a ferry company not to carry Irish livestock has long term implications for strategic access and essential supplies to this island; and whether he will review our open port policy which allows ferry companies to pick and choose cargo without consideration of our island status. [2945/94]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Andrews)

The Deputy will be aware that the decision by a ferry company to stop carrying cattle from Ireland to the Continent was taken following pressure from animal welfare interests. I understand that alternative dedicated arrangements have been put in place and animals continue to be exported to continental markets.

The ready availability in these circumstances of alternative shipping capacity to meet export needs indicates that the ferry company's decision does not have long term implications for strategic access. The situation will be kept under close review.

We have a long standing policy of full commercial freedom of shipping in this country and the balance of national advantage still lies in that direction.