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Live Exports.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 November 2004

Thursday, 18 November 2004

Questions (22)

Olwyn Enright

Question:

21 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the action she is taking to reopen live export markets; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29202/04]

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Written answers

There is significant trade in live cattle between Ireland and other European Countries and also the Lebanon. The principal destinations for live cattle from Ireland are Northern Ireland, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain and the Lebanon. Last year some 220,862 cattle were exported live to all destinations. So far this year, a total of 102,808 cattle have been exported. This decline can be attributed to buoyant prices for cattle on the home market and a strong export market in beef.

The main traditional third country markets for Irish cattle in the past, which are currently closed to live exports, are Egypt and Libya. While the market in Egypt is open to Irish beef imports, the live trade is closed. An agreement was made in 2000 to open the Libyan market for live animals. However, Libya has stated that logistical problems have prevented the development of this market.

The live trade is a critical component to overall competition in the beef trade. It is my policy that there should be free and open access to all markets both within the EU and in third countries for Irish beef and cattle. I am fully committed to ensuring that the option of exporting cattle live to overseas countries is maintained. My Department, together with Bord Bia and the Department of Foreign Affairs will continue to seek to exploit every opportunity to expand the market for the live trade and beef exports.

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