Live cattle refunds move opposed

THE stated intention of the European Commission immediately to eliminate refunds for all EU exports of live cattle is being opposed by Agriculture and Food Minister Mary Coughlan.

However, the EU move has been welcomed by Compassion in World Farming - Ireland (CIWF-Ireland), which described it as a clear indication that the commission accepts that the welfare of cattle taken to countries outside the EU cannot be protected.

A final decision on the proposal will be made tomorrow at a meeting of the EU Beef Management Committee.