Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 April 2017
329. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the progress made to date in increasing live exports; his plans to protect live exports in relation to Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18686/17]
View answerI am very conscious of the vital role that live exports play in stimulating price competition, and providing an alternative market outlet for farmers. My Department and Bord Bia are involved in on-going work to encourage and facilitate such exports. The Deputy will be aware that, in February last, my Department reduced the veterinary inspection fee payable on live exports of calves under three months of age to €1.20 per animal from €4.80, in order to bring greater equity in the fees payable per consignment in respect of calves, weanlings and adult cattle.
The cattle export trade in 2017 is positive after two years of decline. To date, exports of live cattle in 2017 have increased by almost 22,000 head, or 43%, in comparison to the first quarter of last year.
I will continue to work to ensure that Irish meat and livestock producers have the option of exporting to markets abroad for both processed meat and live animals.
