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Live Exports

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 December 2018

Thursday, 13 December 2018

Ceisteanna (173)

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

173. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the initiatives he plans to take to increase live exports in view of the oversupply of cattle available to meat factories that are unable or unwilling to provide a fair price to farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52609/18]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Live exports play a vital role in stimulating price competition and providing an alternative market outlet for farmers. Accessing and developing new markets is a priority for my Department, in line with the Food Wise theme of market development.  

 Live exports for 2018 (data to 10 November) amount to 238,514 head, compared to 179,269 in 2017, an increase of  33%, driven by increased exports to other EU markets, mainly Spain, the Netherlands and Italy.

 Live exports to third countries have decreased this year, due in part to severe currency fluctuations in Turkey. Nevertheless, nearly 13,000 head of cattle were exported to Turkey to date this year.  

 Live exports to Libya more than doubled (from 1,830 to 4,489) compared to 2017. At the end of November, my Department reached agreement with the Libyan authorities on new veterinary health certs for the export of breeding, fattening and slaughter cattle. Agreement was also reached on an increase in the age of cattle that can be exported to Libya, from 24 to 30 months. 

Progress has also been made in discussions with the Egyptian authorities on amendments to existing export certificates for live exports.  

My Department will continue to engage with third countries and to seek out new markets for live exports.

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