Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 July 2026
34. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the mortality rates in live cattle exports; if he will consider ending the practice on animal welfare grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52309/26]
View answerThe trade in and export of animals to EU and third countries is a private commercial activity which is regulated by my Department in accordance with EU and National Regulations.
My Department monitors compliance through a robust system of official controls. These include advance inspection to ensure all animals are fit for transport and comply with the terms of their health certification, Animal transport is only permitted where journeys can be carried out in full compliance with EU and National Regulations.
My Department does not record the level of cattle mortalities transported by road vehicle and RoRo vessel to other Member States via the French port of Cherbourg.
In order for a dedicated vessel to be allowed load and transport cattle out of Ireland it must be approved in accordance with the provisions of S.I. No. 356/2016 - Carriage of Livestock by Sea Regulations 2016. This National Regulation sets a higher threshold for approval than the relevant provisions of Council Regulation (EC) No. 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations. Typically, the number of mortalities that arise during transport from Ireland by dedicated vessel is relatively low. Any mortalities that do arise during transport by dedicated vessel from Ireland are recorded and returns are made via the Masters Report to my Department following completion of each journey
Mortality rates in respect of live cattle exports transported by dedicated livestock vessels out of Ireland to third countries in 2025 are detailed in the table below.
|
Year |
2025 |
|
Year |
2025 |
|
Number of animals exported to Third Countries via dedicated livestock vessel |
7,562 |
|
Mortalities |
3 |
|
% number of mortalities |
0.040% |
My Department is conscious of the need to ensure the welfare of the animals in transit and is satisfied that the systems in place in respect of extra-community movement of these animals are supportive of the welfare of the animals and in compliance with the relevant legislation. My Department continues to review its processes and procedures in relation to the welfare of animals transported out of Ireland on an ongoing basis.
Live exports are an important part of Ireland’s livestock industry. They play a significant role in stimulating price competition and providing an alternative market outlet for farmers. My Department facilitates this trade, recognising its importance to the agri-food sector, while placing a strong emphasis on the welfare of all animals being transported. I have no plans to introduce legislation to end this trade.
