Live Exports

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 March 2013

Tuesday, 26 March 2013

Questions (129)

Niall Collins

Question:

129. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has had discussions with shippers operating out of Dublin and Dún Laoghaire to ports in Wales and England on the possibility of their allowing lorries carrying livestock to be carried on these ships, so that Irish farmers would have direct access to factories in Britain for their livestock, in view of the higher prices paid there at times and to increase competition for the slaughter of Irish livestock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14735/13]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

While meetings have taken place between my Department, An Bord Bia and Irish Ferry Companies to explore the possibilities for the direct transport of livestock (cattle) from Ireland to Britain, the matter is primarily one for decision by the ferry companies based on commercial considerations. Currently livestock ferries operate from Larne and Belfast.