Farmers rally to export cause
IFA Livestock Committee chairman John Bryan said proposals from EU Commissioner David Byrne on animal transport were unnecessary, restrictive and very damaging to the live export trade, were not scientifically based and must be rejected.
Mr Bryan said Teagasc in Grange, Co Meath, pioneered major scientific work which proves that the transport of animals over long distances under proper conditions has no adverse affect on their welfare. In addition, Teagasc proved significantly reducing the stocking densities level on trucks from their current level adds no animal welfare benefits.
Dr Bernadette Earley, Teagasc, Grange, the leading research scientist in Ireland on the impact of transport on animal welfare, outlined her findings to the rally.
John Dillon, president, launched an IFA Ennis Declaration, which calls on the Government, the European Commission and the EU Council of Ministers to protect the fundamental right of livestock farmers to full market access and maximum cattle price competition through the live export trade. Compassion in World Farming staged a protest outside the West County Hotel where the rally was held.
