My Department has always sought to ensure that animals are transported from Ireland in conditions which meet strict welfare criteria and which comply with EU legislation as regards standards of transport, ventilation, stocking density, rest periods, and fodder and water provisions. Animals being transported are inspected prior to departure to assess their fitness to travel and their health status. In addition, departmental veterinary staff travel from time to time with consignments to monitor conditions and to ensure that the animals arrive in good condition at their destination. Trucks and vessels are inspected before approval for use in the export trade, and follow-up inspections are also carried out. In addition, our legislation specifically precludes ships from sailing when the weather forecasts indicate adverse weather conditions.