Gerry Reynolds
Ceist:361 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his plans to ensure that persons in the west of Ireland have a competitive market for their cattle. [2693/02]
Written Answers. - Live Exports.
Gerry Reynolds
Ceist:370 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the measures in place to safeguard the live cattle export trade; and if he will develop markets in the interest of the small producers of the West of Ireland. [2702/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 361 and 370 together.
The prices currently being paid for cattle in Ireland suggest that there is a competitive market for cattle in the west and in the country as a whole. Steer and heifer deadweight prices have increased by 15% and 10% respectively since last November. Live weight prices have increased by 5% in the same period.
In view of our high self-sufficiency ratio the availability of maximum export outlets is a key factor in the market for Irish cattle. It is the policy of this Government that every export market should be open to Irish cattle and beef and no effort is being spared by my Department, the Department of Foreign Affairs or an Bord Bia to bring this about. The major third country markets for Irish beef, Russia and Egypt, are open to Irish beef exporters and it is a matter for the commercial interests involved to develop these markets. With regard to other third country markets, such as Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states, each of these is being dealt with in whatever way is most appropriate to the circumstances prevailing in that market. The strategy adopted in each case is kept under constant review by my Department having regard to advice from our embassies in the countries concerned and from an Bord Bia.
As far as the live export trade is concerned, this outlet plays an important role in maintaining competition in the cattle market place. The live trade is an important outlet for our young weanlings which are exported to the EU and for older animals which are exported both to the EU and to third countries. I have made it clear in discussions in the EU Agricultural Council that I am committed to ensuring that this trade is permitted to continue, while at the same time maintaining high animal welfare standards for cattle during transport.