The export of cattle, whether for slaughter, breeding or production, is a commercial matter, and subject to market demand and other economic variables. Under EU trade rules, and subject to veterinary health certification, there is free movement of such cattle from Ireland to every other Member State.
Overall live exports in 2009 increased by 94% on 2008, with exports to the UK increasing by 159% and those to other EU destinations by 74%. In the period up to 21 February 2010 live exports are already over 300% ahead of the levels achieved during the same period in 2009. Within this, trade has been especially strong in cattle to Northern Ireland, calves to the Netherlands and weanlings to Italy and Spain. Over the full year it is anticipated that overall live exports should reach the highest level for many years.
With a view to facilitating the live export trade, Bord Bia continues to work closely with the industry in monitoring and developing emerging opportunities and in resolving any outstanding difficulties.