Joe Callanan
Ceist:108 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the provisions to continue exports of live cattle in the autumn. [19961/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 6 July 2004
Ceisteanna (76)
Freagraí scríofa
My Department's role in the promotion and preservation of trade is to create the conditions in which it can be carried out in a economic and sustainable manner. In the case of live exports this involves the protection of our animal health status, preserving the integrity of our veterinary certification service and ensuring that good standards are maintained and welfare considerations are observed. More than 64,000 cattle have been exported from Ireland in 2004 to the week ended 20 June. Exports in 2003 were at a level of 212,093 compared with 148,212 the previous year.
My Department also approves sea going vessels for the carriage of livestock, upon application by shipping companies and taking into account the relevant statutory provisions relating to animal health and welfare.
In this regard my Department has approved 18 dedicated livestock vessels and 3 roll on roll off vessels for the carriage of livestock from Ireland since 1995. I will continue to make my Department's services available for the evaluation and approval of livestock vessels. However, once vessels are approved, the question of whether to provide a service is a commercial matter for the operators.