Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 November 2004
147 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the measure she proposes to take in the event of the cessation of live exports due to the lack of a carrier; if she has examined the likely negative impact and loss of income to producers in such circumstances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29615/04]
View answerThe Government has consistently supported the continuance of the live export trade, as an essential market outlet for Irish farmers. Regarding the transport of animals by sea, my Department's function is to approve sea vessels for the carriage of livestock by working closely with applicant companies to ensure that the conditions aboard such vessels are consistent with national and EU animal welfare requirements. Within this framework, 18 dedicated livestock vessels and three roll-on roll-off vessels have been approved for the carriage of cattle since 1995. However, the actual provision of such services is a commercial matter.
I assure the Deputy, however, that I am exploring all options to facilitate the continuation of the live export trade. I have met a number of stakeholders in the industry and have raised the possibility of re-opening the landbridge through the UK with Commissioner Byrne. At this week's meeting of the EU standing committee on the food chain and animal health, the European Commission indicated its willingness to bring forward a proposal on this matter at an early date. Officials of my Department are also working closely with prospective service providers on providing an alternative ferry service. Nevertheless, the transport of live animals is ultimately a commercial matter and my Department has approved a sufficient number of vessels to provide a service if the commercial demand exists. Likewise, it will inspect any further vessels that are proposed for use in transporting cattle.
As regards producer incomes, the price of cattle is dependant on a number of factors in the market at any given time including the availability of live shipping outlets.
