Clare Daly
Ceist:35. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the implications for live cattle exports in view of the announcement of the opening of the beef market with China. [18261/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 26 April 2018
Ceisteanna (35)
Freagraí scríofa
Last week I announced that my Department has secured the opening of the Chinese beef market for Irish beef. This is very good news for our agri-food sector and indeed for the country. The ongoing search for new third-country markets is a priority for my Department, particularly in the context of the challenges posed for our livestock products by the upcoming UK exit from the EU.
But while China will be an important future market for Irish beef, live exports will also remain an important component of Ireland’s livestock industry, playing a vital role in stimulating price competition, and providing an alternative market outlet for Irish farmers.
Indeed, live exports were among the strongest performers in terms of agri-food export growth in 2017. Last year saw an increase by 21%, to the value of €175 million. €115 million of this represents the live cattle market. Live exports will continue to play a part in informing the destinations selected for trade missions in 2018 as it did in 2017.
In terms of animal welfare, EU Council Regulation (EC) No. 1/2005 on animal transport provides for the application of stricter rules by member states than those set down at EU level. Ireland has availed of this provision and, therefore the current Irish legislation, made possible by powers conferred under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, sets higher standards relating to the approval of ships for livestock transport than those which apply generally in the EU.
Only ships approved by my Department, which involves assessment from independent Marine Surveyors in the process, can load cattle for export from Ireland. Livestock being exported are monitored by my Department’s veterinary inspectors during the prescribed isolation period, with the loading of cattle also supervised by Department officials. All animals are inspected and must be certified as regards health status and fitness for travel, and cattle on board a livestock ship departing from Ireland are typically bedded and penned in conditions very similar to cattle in any feedlot or cattle shed. In addition, due regard must be taken to weather conditions in respect of long distance transport and these measures contribute to maintaining Ireland’s reputation as an exporter of livestock of high health status.
The preservation of Ireland’s animal health status, the international reputation of veterinary certification services and the existence and application of a regulatory framework ensures that high standards and welfare considerations are taken into account during transport and are essential components to safeguarding Ireland’s live export trade.
The Deputy can be assured that my Department will continue to promote and maintain an environment in which live exports can continue in both an economic and sustainable manner, with an ongoing strong emphasis on the welfare of all animals being exported.