The Programme for Government commits the Government to “provide additional resources to monitor welfare standards, by increasing the veterinary presence available on all live export consignments to third countries”.
My Department is assessing implementation of this commitment and the possible additional actions required, whilst continuing to ensure appropriate inspection and oversight of these consignments and indeed also dealing with the practicalities of COVID-19 restrictions.
Livestock consignments to third countries are relatively infrequent events with 9 shipments in both 2018 and 2019 and 7 so far in 2020. Already this year, prior to COVID-19 restrictions, two third country shipments have been accompanied by Department veterinary inspectors.
To date, the feedback as regards the welfare, quality and health of the Irish cattle on these shipments has been positive. My Department will continue to evaluate and modify its export control systems as appropriate and necessary.