Marts oppose export refunds move

THE country’s livestock marts have voiced strong opposition to the European Commission’s proposal to end all export refunds on live animals.

A decision on the issue is due to be taken today at a meeting of the EU Beef Management Committee, despite objections by many member states including Ireland.

Tom Doyle, chairman of the ICOS mart committee and president of the European Livestock Marts Association (ELMA), said it is important the EU remains competitive in export markets for live animals, as well as beef, as it still needs to export both to certain markets. “This is essential to maintain strong competition in the trade, especially when EU markets are weak.”