Vol. 475 No. 4
271 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the concerns, if any, he has for the export of livestock to the EU in view of the fact that Irish Ferries no longer operate a service; the effect, if any, this will have on Irish cattle prices; the plans, if any, he has to ensure that an adequate ferry service is provided to EU countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5238/97]
The provision of ferries for the export of live cattle to the EU is primarily a matter for the ferry companies themselves. The second carrier on the Rosslare to France route will recommence service on 25 March and this development should increase the capacity available for live exports. The various measures adopted in the beef marketing area since the BSE crisis arose in March 1996 have served to support the market and I expect that situation to continue.
