Rally targets threat to live exports
In 2003 live exports of cattle from Ireland increased by 68% as the recovery in demand following the FMD/BSE continued, but the total live exports for the year at 217,755 head remained down on the pre BSE/FMD level. Live exports of calves increase two-and-a half fold to 63,000 and weanlings were 61% higher at 78,000 head.
The live export trade remains critical for the industry because of the high dependence on exports live or dead for 90% of production in the livestock sector. Restrictions proposed by the EU Commission under a new regime for live exports pose a threat to the future of the trade.
More than 1,000 farmers are expected for the rally at the West County Hotel, Ennis where the IFA will lead the opposition to ’unacceptable’ restrictions being imposed by the commission. The meeting will be addressed by Kevin Quinn an Irish Live Exporter and by Miguel Garcia Saez, a major Spanish live importer.
The panel of speakers will also include Dr Bernadette Early, senior researcher on animal welfare and transport from Teagasc and John Bryan, chairman IFA National Livestock Committee. Agriculture Minister Joe Walsh and EU Commissioner for Health and Consumer Affairs, David Byrne, have been invited to address the rally.
IFA President, John Dillon said that the rally comes at a time when draconian EU Commission proposals on animal transport threatens to restrict animal transport from this country.
"This is an important opportunity for farmers to send a powerful message to politicians that a strong live trade is essential to maintain cattle prices," he said.
